VOI World/ Desk
India activated large-scale preparedness measures on Saturday as Cyclone Ditwah moved toward the country’s southeast coast after causing severe destruction in Sri Lanka. The cyclone has already claimed at least 153 lives in Sri Lanka, with dozens still missing, and is expected to make its closest approach to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry by Sunday.
Authorities deployed 28 disaster response teams and set up nearly 6,000 relief camps across Tamil Nadu. Chennai airport cancelled more than 50 flights, and railways opened a dedicated war room to monitor disruptions as heavy rain, strong winds, and potential storm surges were forecast for coastal districts.
The India Meteorological Department issued red alerts for parts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, warning of extremely heavy rain in areas including Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Villupuram, and Karaikal. As of Saturday night, the cyclone was positioned over the southwest Bay of Bengal and moving north-northwest at high intensity, with wind speeds expected to touch 70 kmph during its closest approach, around 290 km south of Chennai.
Alongside domestic readiness, India also sent significant support to Sri Lanka, where Ditwah caused widespread damage. New Delhi dispatched search-and-rescue teams, medical supplies, food items, tents, and blankets to Colombo. An IAF C-130 aircraft carried 12 tonnes of relief material, while naval ships were positioned to assist with ongoing operations. Additional NDRF teams were also on standby.
External affairs minister S Jaishankar said India remained committed to helping Sri Lanka recover from the cyclone’s impact, noting that Indian PM Modi had been briefed on the situation.
Authorities in India continue to monitor the cyclone’s trajectory closely, with emergency services positioned for rapid response as the system nears landfall proximity.
