Colombo: Sri Lanka continues to struggle with the devastating impact of Cyclone Ditwah, as the death toll has risen to 390. Authorities have confirmed that 352 people are still missing, and with rescue teams yet to access several remote areas, officials fear the numbers may rise further in the coming days.
The cyclone triggered massive floods and landslides across multiple districts, affecting more than 13.7 lakh people. The Kandy district has reported the highest number of deaths at 88, where heavy rainfall caused several hillside communities to be buried under mud and debris.
More than 2.04 lakh people are currently staying in relief camps after losing their homes or being evacuated due to dangerous conditions. Government reports show that 432 houses have been completely destroyed while 15,688 have been partially damaged. Roads, bridges and essential infrastructure have also suffered significant damage, slowing rescue operations.
In response to the growing humanitarian crisis, the Sri Lankan government has begun discussions with the World Bank to assess the total damage and future rebuilding needs. A special national recovery fund is being considered with support from both public and private sectors. A report estimating the cost and scope of repairs is expected within two weeks.
India has stepped in as one of the first countries to provide emergency assistance. Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, India delivered 53 tonnes of relief materials and has been assisting in rescue and medical efforts. More than 2000 stranded Indian nationals have also been safely evacuated. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally assured Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of continued support for relief and long term rehabilitation.
The cyclone is part of a wider pattern of severe weather affecting the region, with other Asian countries including Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand also reporting heavy damage and rising death tolls. Climate experts say storms like Ditwah are becoming stronger and more unpredictable due to changing global climate conditions.
For now, rescue teams in Sri Lanka remain focused on locating missing persons and ensuring survivors receive food, clean water and medical care. As floodwaters begin to recede, the full scale of destruction is becoming clear, and the country now faces the long process of rebuilding shattered communities and restoring normal life.