The modular Bailey bridges will play a critical role in the rapid restoration of damaged road connectivity, facilitating civilian movement and enabling the smooth conduct of relief and rehabilitation operations in affected areas
Indian Naval Ship Gharial arrived in Colombo on Thursday, carrying the bridges. Pic/Defence PRO
Indian Naval Ship Gharial arrived in Colombo on Thursday, carrying 10 Bailey bridges to support Sri Lanka’s post-cyclone reconstruction efforts following Cyclone Ditwah.
The modular Bailey bridges will play a critical role in the rapid restoration of damaged road connectivity, facilitating civilian movement and enabling the smooth conduct of relief and rehabilitation operations in affected areas.
The humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) mission is part of India’s USD 450 million Special Economic Package announced by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and builds on the ongoing regional cooperation framework under Operation Sagar Bandhu.
The deployment underscores the Indian Navy’s role as a first responder and a trusted partner in the Indian Ocean Region, reaffirming India’s commitment to supporting its maritime neighbours in times of need.
India, Sri Lanka linked by deep civilisational, spiritual bonds: PM Modi on Buddha relics exposition
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on Thursday said India and Sri Lanka share "deep civilisational and spiritual bonds" as he thanked Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for inaugurating the exposition of the holy Devnimori relics of Lord Buddha in Colombo.
The first-ever international exposition of these sacred relics, originating from the Devnimori archaeological site in Gujarat’s Aravalli district, is being held at Gangaramaya Temple from February 4 to 11.
The event was inaugurated on Wednesday by President Dissanayake, along with Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, in the presence of Chief Incumbent Ven Kirinde Assaji Thero.
President Dissanayake posted on X on February 4: “Respectfully welcome the Sacred Relics of the Buddha to Sri Lanka today for public veneration until the 11th at Hunupitiya Gangaramaya Temple. I deeply appreciate PM @narendramodi and the Government of India for honouring their promise and enabling this sacred exposition.”
He also shared photographs of the relics, which will be open for public viewing from February 5.
Sharing his post on X, Prime Minister Modi wrote: “Gratitude to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for inaugurating the Exposition of the Holy Devnimori Relics at the sacred Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo.”
"During my visit in April 2025, it was decided these relics will come to Sri Lanka, thus giving the opportunity for the people to pay their respects. Our nations are connected by deep civilisational and spiritual bonds. May Lord Buddha's timeless message of compassion, peace and harmony continue to guide humanity. @anuradisanayake," he said.
(With PTI inputs)
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