India has dispatched 10 Bailey Bridges to Colombo to aid in restoring critical connectivity in areas of Sri Lanka impacted by Cyclone Ditwah. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that this assistance is part of India’s Special Economic Package of USD 450 million, following the recent visit of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to Sri Lanka. These bridges aim to support reconstruction efforts after Cyclone Ditwah and strengthen connectivity in the affected regions.
The newly commissioned 120-foot Bailey Bridge on the B-492 Kandy–Ragala Road, inaugurated jointly by Indian officials and a Member of Parliament, has restored a crucial road link in the region. This bridge plays a vital role in facilitating passenger movement, the transportation of essential goods, and the revival of local economic activities.
The Indian High Commission in Colombo highlighted that these Bailey Bridges are part of India’s USD 450 million Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Assistance to Sri Lanka. The project aims to enhance access and mobility in areas affected by Cyclone Ditwah, especially in challenging hilly terrains. The restoration efforts are being carried out in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Army and the Road Development Authority (RDA).
In the upcoming phase, more Bailey bridges will be constructed in the following weeks to ensure comprehensive restoration of connectivity across all affected regions.
