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Sri Lanka Declares Emergency Amid Cyclone Devastation
29 Nov
Summary
- President Dissanayake declared a state of emergency across Sri Lanka.
- Cyclone Ditwah caused over 120 deaths and widespread destruction.
- India dispatched relief supplies and search teams to assist Sri Lanka.
In response to the catastrophic aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has declared a nationwide state of emergency. The cyclone, which has since moved towards the Indian coast, has left a trail of destruction, with over 120 confirmed fatalities and widespread infrastructure damage. Communication remains disrupted in severely affected areas, suggesting the true toll may be higher.
India has swiftly provided crucial support, delivering approximately 27 tonnes of relief materials, including essential supplies, food, and water. Two urban search and rescue teams, comprising 80 National Disaster Response Force personnel, have joined the rescue operations, alongside two Chetak helicopters deployed from the INS Vikrant. An emergency helpline has also been established at Bandaranaike International Airport to assist stranded Indian citizens.
The state of emergency is intended to streamline relief coordination and expedite rescue operations, facilitating the rapid deployment of troops, police, health workers, and civil administration. This measure aims to effectively tackle the ongoing crisis and address the urgent needs of the affected population across the island.
