New Delhi/Colombo | Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, Indian Army engineers have once again demonstrated India’s role as a reliable first responder in the region by restoring critical road connectivity in cyclone-hit Sri Lanka. Battling harsh weather, continuous rain and difficult mountainous terrain, Indian Army personnel constructed a 100-foot-long Bailey bridge in just one day, dramatically improving movement between key regions of the island nation.
Sri Lanka was recently hit by severe Cyclone Ditwah, followed by landslides that caused widespread destruction of roads and bridges. Several areas were completely cut off, disrupting civilian movement, relief supply chains and essential services. In this challenging situation, Indian Army engineers stepped in to support Sri Lanka’s recovery efforts, reinforcing India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.
Restoring Lifeline Connectivity
As part of Operation Sagar Bandhu, Indian Army engineers worked closely with the Sri Lanka Army and the Road Development Authority to restore the damaged road link between the Central Province and Uva Province. The newly constructed Bailey bridge has been installed on the B-492 highway, a vital route connecting Kandy and Badulla.
Earlier, Indian Army engineers had successfully constructed a 120-foot dual-carriageway Bailey bridge on the A-35 highway in the Jaffna region. Building on that success, the new 100-foot bridge has restored a route that was completely blocked due to landslides and the collapse of an old structure.
Before the bridge was operational, commuters were forced to take detours of nearly four hours. With the bridge now open, travel time between Kandy and Badulla has been reduced to around two hours, significantly easing civilian movement and accelerating the flow of relief material, machinery and emergency services.
Built in a Single Day Against the Odds
Construction began on January 4, when a team of 24 highly experienced Indian Army bridging experts took charge of the site. Despite relentless rainfall and the challenges posed by hilly terrain, the team completed the bridge within a single day—an achievement that highlights the Indian Army’s technical expertise and operational efficiency.
Prior to installation, both riverbanks were reinforced to ensure the bridge could bear heavy loads. The engineers used advanced reconnaissance tools, including indigenous drones, laser range finders and modern survey equipment, to assess the site and maintain continuous monitoring during construction.
Beyond Bridges: A Comprehensive Relief Effort
India’s contribution under Operation Sagar Bandhu has extended far beyond bridge construction. Earlier, a 48-member Indian Army Engineer Task Force rebuilt damaged infrastructure in the Jaffna region, reopening roads that had remained closed for nearly 20 days. These efforts helped normalise access to schools, hospitals, markets and other essential services, especially for people living in remote and hilly areas.
In addition to engineering support, Indian paratroopers and signal units were deployed during relief operations and were later honoured in Sri Lanka for their contribution. India also established a field hospital to support medical relief efforts. An 85-member medical team from the 60 Parachute Field Hospital was airlifted to the Mahiyanganaya area near Kandy, where they treated over 7,000 people.
The medical team carried out emergency surgeries, provided specialised care for women and children, and used satellite internet technology for remote consultations with doctors in India. By mid-December, the team had successfully completed its mission and returned home after treating more than 1,250 critical patients.
Strengthening India’s First-Responder Image
The post-cyclone situation in Sri Lanka was grave, with damaged infrastructure and disrupted communication networks. India’s swift deployment of engineering, medical and logistical assistance showcased its capacity to respond rapidly and effectively to humanitarian crises in the region.
Operation Sagar Bandhu has further strengthened India’s image as a dependable partner and a first responder in times of disaster. The Sri Lankan government and local communities have widely appreciated the Indian Army’s timely and impactful assistance, which has played a crucial role in restoring normalcy and hope after the devastation.
