Colombo [Sri Lanka], February 5 (ANI): Indian Naval Ship Gharial arrived in Colombo to deliver 10 Bailey bridges in support of Sri Lanka’s post-cyclone reconstruction efforts following Cyclone Ditwah. The delivery follows the inauguration of a Bailey bridge by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in December 2025.
The modular Bailey bridges are expected to play a critical role in the rapid restoration of damaged road connectivity, facilitating civilian mobility and enabling the smooth conduct of relief and rehabilitation operations in affected areas.
This humanitarian assistance and disaster relief mission forms part of India’s USD 450 million Special Economic Package announced by External Affairs Minister Jaishankar and builds on ongoing regional cooperation under Operation Sagar Bandhu.
The deployment underscores the Indian Navy’s role as a first responder and a trusted partner in the Indian Ocean Region, reinforcing India’s enduring support for its maritime neighbors during times of need.
Indian Naval Ship Gharial docked in Colombo with the shipment of 10 Bailey bridges on Wednesday, marking a key milestone in ongoing humanitarian efforts to restore infrastructure and support communities affected by the cyclone.
Cyclone Ditwah caused extensive damage to roads and vital transport networks, disrupting civilian mobility and hampering relief operations. The modular bridges are expected to play a transformative role in swiftly reestablishing road connectivity, ensuring that emergency services and humanitarian assistance reach the most impacted regions without delay.
The mission is an integral part of the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief framework and aligns with India’s commitment under the USD 450 million Special Economic Package, further demonstrating the depth of India’s support for its neighbors during challenging times.
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