Cyclone Ditwah has left a devastating mark on Sri Lanka, with the confirmed death toll now standing at 123. The powerful storm triggered severe flooding and destructive landslides, crippling infrastructure and displacing a vast number of residents. Search and rescue teams are tirelessly working in the affected areas.
The Disaster Management Centre has highlighted the immense loss and disruption caused by Cyclone Ditwah. Tragically, 123 people have died, and another 130 remain unaccounted for. Kandy District has reported the highest casualties with 51 deaths, while Badulla District has confirmed 35 deaths. Numerous other districts have also suffered significant loss of life and property.
The cyclone’s impact has been far-reaching, affecting over 373,000 people from more than 100,000 families. Amidst the devastation, a remarkable rescue operation unfolded where approximately 40 people were saved from a bus engulfed by floodwaters. They were subsequently moved to safety on the roof of a nearby structure.
In a show of solidarity, India has launched ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’ to support Sri Lanka. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been dispatched with specialized teams and equipment. Indian naval assets have delivered critical relief supplies, and a dedicated help desk is operational for Indian citizens in Colombo. Rescue flights are also actively assisting those in need.