Operation Sagarbandhu: Indian Army and Navy Dispatch 10 Extra-Wide Bridges to Cyclone-Hit Sri Lanka

COLOMBO, Feb 06, 2026 – Strengthening regional stability and maritime cooperation, the Indian Armed Forces have intensified their Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) efforts under Operation Sagarbandhu.

In a powerful display of military-civil synergy, the Indian Army and Indian Navy, in collaboration with Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), have transported 10 additional extra-wide Bailey bridges to Sri Lanka aboard the INS Gharial.

This strategic deployment is designed to restore critical infrastructure damaged by the devastating Cyclone Ditwah, which caused widespread disruption across the island nation’s inland transport networks.

Currently, Indian Army Engineers are working in close coordination with the Sri Lankan Road Development Authority to conduct comprehensive damage assessments at seven vital bridge sites throughout the Central, Uva, and Sabaragamuwa Provinces.

The deployment of these extra-wide Bailey bridges is a direct response to the urgent need for re-establishing essential lines of communication and supply routes.

By launching these modular structures at the most severely impacted locations, India aims to provide immediate relief and long-term connectivity for the affected communities, reaffirming its commitment as a first responder and reliable partner in the Indian Ocean Region.