Cyclone Ditwah has devastated Sri Lanka, leaving nearly a third of the island without electricity or running water. The disaster, which struck the east coast on Friday, has caused widespread flooding and landslides, particularly in the Kandy and Badulla regions, where the highest death toll has been recorded. At least 330 people have been killed, more than 370 remain missing, and over 196,000 have been displaced.
The government has declared a state of emergency as 108,000 people are now housed in temporary shelters. The cyclone has destroyed more than 20,000 homes, depriving many of basic necessities. Relief and rescue efforts are hampered by power outages, landslides, and blocked roads, making it difficult to reach affected areas.
Sri Lanka has appealed for international assistance. India has responded quickly, sending humanitarian aid, disaster‑relief materials, and deploying its National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to coordinate with local authorities. Helicopters from the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, currently docked in Colombo, are also being used to support operations.
The emergency declaration underscores the severity of the crisis and the urgent need for global support. As the situation evolves, the priority will be to provide aid to those affected, restore essential services, and work toward normalcy in the hardest‑hit regions. The international community’s response in the coming days will be crucial to Sri Lanka’s recovery.
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