A powerful cyclone named Ditwa, formed in the Bay of Bengal, has turned into one of the worst natural disasters in Sri Lanka’s recent history. The cyclone caused widespread destruction, heavy rainfall, flooding, and major loss of life, leaving the entire nation in deep shock. The system first began as a low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal and slowly strengthened into a severe cyclone. By the end of November, it moved toward Sri Lanka, bringing record-breaking rainfall across several regions. The cyclone first struck the eastern provinces, including Batticaloa and Trincomalee, before moving toward the northern province, especially Jaffna. Some places like Matale recorded up to 56 cm of rainfall, causing intense flooding. According to reports, more than 300 people have lost their lives, and the number may rise further as over 400 people are still missing. Nearly 2 lakh people have been displaced, and they have been moved to 1,275 relief camps set up across the country. Essential services such as electricity, drinking water, transportation, and communication have been severely affected in many parts of Sri Lanka. To support rescue operations, India launched a relief mission called Operation ‘Sagar Bandhu’. Helicopters from INS Vikrant were sent to help with emergency aid and rescue. More than 300 Indian citizens, who were stranded in Sri Lanka due to the cyclone, were safely rescued by the Indian Air Force. They were brought to Thiruvananthapuram, from where they will be sent to their hometowns. Sri Lanka continues to face massive challenges as rescue teams work around the clock to find missing people, provide relief, and restore essential services.
