Colombo, August 10: India has handed over another consignment of Bailey bridges to Sri Lanka to support the restoration of road connectivity in areas affected by Cyclone Ditwah.
The latest consignment, weighing more than 250 metric tonnes, was handed over in Sri Lanka on August 8 as part of India’s broader USD 450-million post-disaster reconstruction package. The latest shipment is the third consignment of Bailey bridges supplied by India under the reconstruction assistance programme.
Five Modular Bridges in Latest Consignment
According to officials, the latest consignment comprises five modular Bailey bridges, valued at more than USD 5 million.
These prefabricated bridges can be rapidly assembled and deployed, making them particularly useful for restoring connectivity in areas where permanent bridges have been damaged or washed away by floods and extreme weather.
Indian Army Engineers to Install Bridges
Indian Army engineering teams will assist in installing the bridges at locations identified by Sri Lankan authorities.
The initiative is aimed at restoring critical transport links, particularly in rural and difficult-to-access areas, allowing communities to regain access to essential services, markets and other economic activity.
India had earlier supplied Bailey bridge systems to Sri Lanka following Cyclone Ditwah. The first bridges were deployed in cyclone-affected regions to restore road connectivity, including in the Kilinochchi and Kandy-Ragala areas.
Part of India’s Wider Reconstruction Assistance
The bridge assistance forms part of India’s wider reconstruction and rehabilitation support to Sri Lanka following the devastating cyclone.
India had earlier deployed Indian Armed Forces personnel, aircraft, helicopters and engineering teams for rescue, relief and infrastructure restoration operations after the disaster. Indian Army engineers were also involved in rebuilding damaged communication and transport infrastructure.
Strengthening India-Sri Lanka Partnership
The latest assistance highlights India’s continuing support for Sri Lanka’s recovery and reconstruction efforts.
Beyond immediate disaster relief, the deployment of modular bridges and engineering expertise is aimed at helping Sri Lanka restore connectivity, strengthen critical infrastructure and support the revival of local economies.
The initiative also underlines the close India-Sri Lanka partnership and New Delhi’s continued focus on infrastructure and humanitarian assistance in the Indian Ocean region.