NEW DELHI: Strengthening the bond of friendship, the Indian Army has successfully constructed a third Bailey bridge on Sri Lanka’s B-492 Highway, linking Kandy and Nuwara Eliya in the Central Province, restoring a critical lifeline that was severed for over a month following Cyclone Ditwah. The task was taken up by the Indian forces as part of ongoing efforts under Operation Sagar Bandhu.Posting on X, Indian Army posted, “The Indian Army’s Engineer Task Force after successfully launching two critical Bailey bridges in the Jaffna and Kandy regions, have constructed, the third Bailey Bridge of length 120 feet at KM 15 on the B-492 Highway in Sri Lanka’s Central Province.”“Linking the Kandy and Nuwara Eliya districts, the bridge will restore a vital lifeline which was cut off for over a month in aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. This effort reaffirms India’s steadfast commitment to Sri Lanka and the Neighbourhood First policy,” the post added.Earlier, the Engineer Task Force had successfully launched a critical 120-foot Dual Carriageway Bailey Bridge to restore vital road connectivity in the Jaffna region, severely affected by Cyclone Ditwah. The specialist task force, comprising 24 bridging experts equipped with the latest technology and new-generation equipment, executed the mission in a record time of two days working day and night in spite of inclement weather conditions.The third Bailey bridge at KM 15 marks another milestone in these relief efforts, demonstrating the Indian Army’s engineering expertise, rapid response capability, and continued commitment to regional humanitarian support.Operation Sagar Bandhu was launched in Nov last year to enable India to provide urgent humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, including restoration of roads, bridges, and essential services. With these connectivities, the Army has not only facilitated daily life for affected communities but also strengthened goodwill between India and Sri Lanka.
