Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Dec 14: Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, the Indian Army has stepped up efforts to restore damaged infrastructure in Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, focusing on reviving critical road connectivity in the worst-hit regions.

An Engineer Task Force of the Indian Army, working jointly with the Sri Lankan Army and the Sri Lankan Road Development Authority, has begun preparatory activities at key bridge sites in Chilaw and Kilinochchi in the Jaffna region. The work will pave the way for the installation of Bailey bridges to reconnect disrupted transport routes.

Sharing details of the ongoing mission, the Indian Army said groundwork is in progress for launching Bailey bridges that will help re-establish road access in cyclone-affected areas. The initiative is part of India’s broader humanitarian assistance efforts launched soon after the cyclone struck.

Earlier this week, the Engineer Task Force — comprising 48 personnel — was airlifted to Sri Lanka on an emergency basis to provide immediate engineering support. The team’s core mandate is to restore vital lines of communication by repairing and rebuilding damaged roads and bridges.

The task force includes highly trained bridging specialists, surveyors and watermanship experts, supported by personnel skilled in operating heavy earth-moving machinery, drones and unmanned systems. This mix of expertise enables swift and accurate operations even in difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions.

To support the mission, four sets of Bailey bridges were transported to Sri Lanka aboard Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft. The contingent is also equipped with pneumatic boats, outboard motors, HESCO bags and advanced tools such as heavy-lift drones and remotely operated boats, enhancing its ability to respond to complex ground conditions.

Meanwhile, the Indian Army has begun winding up its field hospital at Mahiyanganaya near Kandy, as local healthcare services have resumed normal operations. The Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) said in a social media update that the 78-member medical team will return to India on December 14 following the reopening of the Mahiyanganaya General Hospital.

The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka also highlighted India’s continued engagement, noting that the High Commissioner visited the field hospital along with the Governor of Uva Province, reaffirming India’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka during the crisis.

India’s rapid deployment of engineering and medical assistance under Operation Sagar Bandhu reflects its resolve to stand by Sri Lanka during natural disasters and reinforces strong regional humanitarian cooperation.