Indian Army Accelerates Connectivity Restoration in Sri Lanka under Operation Sagar Bandhu

New Delhi, Dec 2025 : The Indian Army has intensified its relief efforts in Sri Lanka under Operation Sagar Bandhu, focusing on restoring critical connectivity following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah.

An Engineer Task Force of the Indian Army has begun preparatory work at the Chilaw and Kilinochchi bridge sites in Jaffna for the deployment of Bailey bridges, in close coordination with the Sri Lankan Army and the Sri Lankan Road Development Authority. These bridges will play a crucial role in reinstating vital road connectivity in the cyclone-affected areas.

Providing an update on the ongoing operations, the Indian Army stated that detailed preparations are underway for the launch of the Bailey bridges to quickly restore transportation and essential supply routes disrupted by the cyclone.

Earlier on Friday, as part of Operation Sagar Bandhu, the Engineer Task Force was airlifted and deployed on a war footing to provide immediate humanitarian and engineering support. Comprising 48 personnel, the task force is tasked with repairing and constructing damaged roads and bridges to re-establish vital lines of communication across the affected regions.

The team includes specialised bridging experts, surveyors, watermanship specialists, and personnel trained to operate heavy earth-moving equipment, drones, and unmanned systems. This combination of skills enables precise and rapid engineering interventions, even under challenging terrain and weather conditions.

Currently, the Engineer Task Force holds four sets of Bailey bridges, airlifted via C-17 aircraft of the Indian Air Force, ready for deployment to restore disrupted connectivity. In addition, the unit is equipped with pneumatic boats, outboard motors, HESCO bags, and advanced systems such as heavy-payload drones and remotely operated boats, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.

Meanwhile, the Indian Army’s field hospital in Mahiyanganaya near Kandy is being gradually wound up as local medical services resume normal operations. The Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) shared on X that the 78-member medical team will return to India on December 14, following the full functionality of Mahiyanganaya General Hospital.

The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka also highlighted the ongoing diplomatic and humanitarian engagement. High Commissioner Sant Jha visited the field hospital along with Kapila Jayasekara, Governor of Uva Province, reaffirming India’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka during this challenging period.

Operation Sagar Bandhu underscores India’s rapid response capability in times of natural disasters, combining engineering and medical assistance to strengthen regional humanitarian cooperation. By swiftly deploying critical resources, India has reinforced its support for Sri Lanka, ensuring restoration of essential infrastructure and timely medical aid to cyclone-affected communities.

Through coordinated efforts between military engineering units, medical teams, and diplomatic channels, India continues to demonstrate its commitment to regional resilience and disaster relief, providing both immediate and sustainable assistance to affected areas in Sri Lanka.

Team Maverick