Tue Dec 02 11:21:04 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewrite as a news article:

Summary:

Cyclone Ditwah has caused widespread devastation in Sri Lanka, resulting in over 400 deaths and leaving hundreds missing. India has responded with immediate emergency assistance, including sending search and rescue teams and offering condolences and support to Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is allowing duty-free entry for flood relief items. The disaster has affected over 1.4 million people and damaged hundreds of roads and bridges.

News Article:

India Responds to Cyclone Ditwah Devastation in Sri Lanka

Colombo, Sri Lanka – December 2, 2025 – In the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, which has ravaged Sri Lanka and claimed over 400 lives, India has emerged as a leading responder in providing emergency assistance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and reaffirmed India’s unwavering support during this difficult time.

Cyclone Ditwah, which struck Sri Lanka on November 16th, has caused widespread flooding, landslides, and infrastructure collapse, severely straining the nation’s disaster response capabilities. The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) reports at least 410 fatalities and 336 missing as of Tuesday morning.

“Prime Minister Modi conveyed heartfelt condolences to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and reaffirmed that India stands firmly beside Sri Lanka and its people in this difficult hour,” stated President Dissanayake’s office.

India has launched “Operation Sagar Bandhu,” deploying two urban search and rescue teams, comprising 80 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel, to aid in rescue efforts. This action underscores India’s “Neighborhood First” policy and commitment to regional cooperation.

Furthermore, the Sri Lankan government announced that flood relief items will be allowed duty-free entry, provided they are consigned to the Director General Disaster Management or the Secretary to the Defense Ministry.

The extent of the damage is immense, with the Road Development Authority reporting 256 damaged roads, including 15 major bridges. Over 1.4 million people from over 400,000 families have been impacted by the disaster.

The situation remains critical as Sri Lanka grapples with the aftermath of the cyclone, and international assistance is crucial to recovery efforts.

Read More