Cyclone Ditwah: Unleashing Havoc Across Sri Lanka and India's Coastal Regions

Cyclone Ditwah exited Sri Lanka, leaving over 120 dead and significant destruction. It then entered south India's coast, prompting ongoing indirect impacts such as heavy rains. The toll is likely higher as communication issues hamper disaster verification. International aid, including India's Operation Sagar Bandhu, is assisting in relief efforts.

Cyclone Ditwah has wreaked havoc after leaving Sri Lanka with a death toll surpassing 120, according to meteorological officials. The cyclone has moved towards the southern coast of India, and authorities are bracing for its continued impact characterized by heavy rains and strong winds.

As of 9 am, the official death toll stood at 123, with 130 individuals recorded as missing, reported the Disaster Management Centre (DMC). Communication breakdowns in heavily affected areas have complicated the verification of the cyclone's full impact, indicating that the numbers could rise.

In response to the crisis, the Indian Air Force has initiated Operation Sagar Bandhu, deploying transport aircraft loaded with paramilitary personnel and relief materials to aid Sri Lanka during this critical period. An intricate rescue operation resulted in the successful extraction of 68 individuals stranded on a bus rooftop after being swept away by floodwaters.

(With inputs from agencies.)