Sri Lanka Disaster: Sri Lanka is currently facing a major humanitarian crisis. Cyclone Ditwa brought unprecedented rainfall to the country. The continuous downpour inundated low-lying areas and loosened the soil in the mountains, triggering landslides.
Deaths in Floods:
More tragically, more than 80 people have lost their lives, while 34 are still missing. Nearly 1.5 lakh people are affected by this crisis, and 14,000 are living in 195 relief camps.
Matale received 540 mm of rain in just 24 hours. This is several times the normal amount. Over the past 10 days, nearly 1000 mm of rain has devastated entire areas. Scientists say that even 150 mm of rain can trigger landslides, and here, over 500 mm of rain has already fallen.
The greatest concern is in Colombo and Gampaha, where the Kelani and Attangalu rivers have reached danger levels. People have been advised to immediately evacuate and preserve important documents.
Stom Damaged Sri Lanka’s Infrastructure:
The storm also severely damaged Sri Lanka’s infrastructure. Three major bridges – the Moragahakanda Main Bridge, the Elahera Bridge, and the Kumara Ella Bridge – were completely washed away. Downed power lines have resulted in power outages in 25–30 percent of the country. Trains have been cancelled, and many exams have been postponed.
Given the dire situation, the President invoked emergency law and declared electricity, fuel, hospitals, and water as “essential services.” Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium has been converted into a relief center, capable of accommodating 3,000 people.
Operation Sagar Bandhu:
India immediately extended a helping hand and launched Operation Sagar Bandhu. The Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant and INS Udayagiri arrived in Sri Lanka with relief supplies, including 4.5 tons of dry rations, 2 tons of fresh food, and other essential supplies.
Experts have described the situation as “unprecedented” and said the next two days could be even more difficult. The storm remains near Trincomalee, and heavy rains are continuing.