 "Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PTI File")
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday held a telephone conversation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and offered India’s support in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, which has claimed more than 355 lives in the island country.
PM Modi expressed his condolences to the people of Sri Lanka and reaffirmed India’s solidarity, pledging continued assistance under the ongoing Operation Sagar Bandhu, which provides rescue and relief to those affected by disasters.
“Prime Minister expressed his heartfelt condolences on the loss of lives and widespread devastation in Sri Lanka in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah. He conveyed that the people of India stand in firm solidarity and support with the people of Sri Lanka in this hour of need,” Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement.
“Prime Minister assured President Dissanayake of India’s continued support to Sri Lanka under the ongoing Operation Sagar Bandhu, providing rescue and relief to distressed persons,” added the statement.
PM Modi also assured that India, guided by its Vision MAHASAGAR and its role as a “First Responder,” would continue to provide all necessary aid in the coming days to help Sri Lanka with rehabilitation, resumption of public services, and restoration of livelihoods.
During the conversation, Dissanayake conveyed his deep gratitude for India’s assistance in the wake of the disaster and appreciated the swift deployment of rescue teams and relief material.
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View All“He also conveyed the appreciation of the people of Sri Lanka for India’s timely and effective response efforts,” the statement read.
The two leaders agreed to remain in close touch.
According to official figures, Cyclone Ditwah has claimed more than 355 lives in Sri Lanka, with 366 people still reported missing.
Striking the island on Friday, the cyclone brought the worst floods in a decade, accompanied by strong winds and heavy rains, and triggered landslides in the hilly central regions.
Weather authorities said in a statement that the storm is expected to move northwards, away from Sri Lanka, and weaken further.
With inputs from agencies