Cyclone ‘Dithwah’ Devastates Sri Lanka: Death Toll Surpasses 123, Millions Displaced
Sri Lanka has been hit hard by Cyclone ‘Dithwah,’ causing widespread destruction across the country. According to the latest report from the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), the death toll has exceeded 123, while more than 130 people are still missing. Heavy rainfall in central and eastern districts has triggered landslides and floods, leaving millions homeless. Over 20,000 military personnel are engaged in rescue operations using helicopters, boats, and armored vehicles, but the flood threat remains significant.
This cyclone is emerging as one of Sri Lanka’s deadliest natural disasters. Heavy rains have persisted since last week, exceeding 300 mm in some areas. Rivers are overflowing, schools remain closed, trains have been suspended, and flights at Colombo Airport are being diverted. According to the DMC, 373,428 individuals and 102,877 families have been affected, with 43,995 people taking refuge in 488 relief centers. Power outages have further worsened the situation, and several hydropower plants have been shut down.
Worst-hit Districts
The cyclone’s most severe impact has been on the central hill regions, where landslides have buried entire villages. Kandy district has reported 51 deaths and 67 missing persons, while Badulla has 35 deaths and 27 missing. Other districts affected include Kegalle (9 deaths), Matale (8), Nuwara Eliya (6), and Ampara (5). Hundreds of homes have been destroyed, and roads are blocked by debris. Locals have been seen waiting for rescue on rooftops.
In villages like Gangoda in Kandy, over 20 people were trapped under landslide debris. The army and air force are conducting helicopter evacuations. Flooding in eastern regions has submerged farmland, destroying crops. A total of 15,000 homes have been completely destroyed, with hundreds more partially damaged. Rising water levels have prompted evacuation alerts for residents along the Maha Oya Valley, Kelani, and Kalu Ganga rivers.
Bus Tragedy at Kalu Oya Bridge: 29-Hour Rescue
The most harrowing incident occurred near Kalu Oya Bridge on the Anuradhapura-Puttalam Road. A bus carrying 60 passengers was swept away by strong floodwaters, including a German woman and a High Court judge. The navy rescued 40–49 people after a strenuous 29-hour operation, with the remaining passengers rescued the following morning. Rising water levels had temporarily halted the operation. All survivors have been hospitalized, and President Ranil Wickremesinghe personally monitored the rescue.
The bus incident starkly highlights the cyclone’s severity. Videos of the bus being swept away circulated on social media, with passengers’ screams clearly audible. Navy divers and helicopter teams performed miraculous rescues. Similarly, 13 people were airlifted from Polonnaruwa, including one individual rescued while clinging to a coconut tree. These daring rescue operations have received global acclaim.
India’s ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’: Support for a Neighbor
India promptly responded to its neighboring country’s crisis. Under ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu,’ 27 tons of relief supplies, including tents, blankets, food, and medicine, were dispatched. Two NDRF teams (80 personnel and 4 rescue dogs) arrived in Colombo, supported by additional assistance from INS Vikrant and Udaygiri. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated, “More assistance is on the way.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and assured, “India stands ready to provide all necessary support.”
Twelve tons of emergency supplies were delivered via C-130J aircraft. INS Vikrant distributed 4.5 tons of dry rations and 2 tons of fresh food. This operation exemplifies India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. NDRF teams have begun rescue operations in landslide-affected areas, and the Sri Lankan government has appreciated India’s prompt assistance.
Relief Efforts Intensify Amid Ongoing Challenges
Relief operations are in full swing. Schools are closed in 20 districts, and the stock exchange suspended trading early. The air force has rescued hundreds by helicopter. However, water levels in the Maha Oya, Kelani, and Kalu Ganga rivers continue to rise, with severe flood alerts in low-lying areas. The meteorological department has warned of additional rainfall in the next 12 hours.
Sri Lanka is facing its most severe crisis since the 2017 floods. The government is considering appeals for international aid. Rehabilitation of affected families remains a major challenge. Messages of solidarity are pouring in from around the world, with hopes that collective efforts will help Sri Lanka recover soon.
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