Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 17: The Indian Army has completed the construction of a third Bailey bridge on Sri Lanka’s B-492 Highway, re-establishing a crucial transport corridor between Kandy and Nuwara Eliya that had remained disrupted for more than a month in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah.
Built at KM 15, the 120-foot-long bridge was erected by the Indian Army’s Engineer Task Force under Operation Sagar Bandhu, an ongoing humanitarian mission aimed at restoring critical infrastructure damaged by the cyclone.
Announcing the development on social media platform X, the Indian Army said its engineers had earlier launched two Bailey bridges in the Jaffna and Kandy regions and have now successfully completed the third structure in Sri Lanka’s Central Province. The Army noted that the bridge reconnects the Kandy and Nuwara Eliya districts, reviving a vital link that had been cut off since the disaster.
The post further highlighted that the effort reflects India’s unwavering support for Sri Lanka and aligns with New Delhi’s Neighbourhood First policy, which prioritises assistance to neighbouring countries during times of crisis.
Earlier this month, the Engineer Task Force had restored connectivity at KM 21 and several other critical locations along the B-492 Highway, which runs from Kandy in the Central Province to Badulla in Uva Province—one of the areas most severely impacted by Cyclone Ditwah. The rapid construction of these temporary bridges has enabled communities to reconnect, shortened travel times, and ensured the smooth movement of relief material and essential goods.
The Indian Army stated that these infrastructure repairs underscore India’s role as a first responder in the region. Cyclone Ditwah, which struck Sri Lanka late last year, caused extensive flooding, landslides, and damage to roads and bridges, placing immense strain on local disaster-response systems.
Operation Sagar Bandhu, launched in November 2025, has facilitated India’s swift Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) support, including the restoration of damaged roads, bridges, and essential services. By rebuilding key stretches of the B-492 Highway, the Indian Army has helped normalise daily life for affected populations while reinforcing bilateral cooperation and goodwill between India and Sri Lanka.
The completion of the third Bailey bridge at KM 15 stands as another significant milestone in these relief operations, showcasing the Indian Army’s engineering capability, rapid deployment strength, and sustained commitment to regional humanitarian assistance.