Indian Army Engineers deployed to Sri Lanka for rapid cyclone relief work

In a rapid humanitarian push under its Neighbourhood First policy, India has deployed a specialised Army Engineer Task Force to Sri Lanka to help rebuild key infrastructure shattered by Cyclone Ditwah.

The contingent of 48 Indian Army engineers was airlifted on priority to support emergency restoration work. Their main task is to repair and rebuild vital lines of communication including damaged roads, bridges, and essential connectivity routes.

Equipped with bridging specialists, survey teams, watermanship experts, and operators trained in heavy machinery, drones, and unmanned systems, the team is delivering precise, on-ground engineering assistance.

A major highlight of the deployment is the induction of four Bailey bridge sets, flown in by Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft, to reconnect cut-off regions. The task force is also carrying pneumatic boats, outboard motors, HESCO flood-protection bags, and next-generation tools such as heavy-payload drones and remote-controlled boats.

Fully mission-ready, the force can handle everything from rescue and relief operations to the construction of shelters, temporary roads, and modular bridges.

After assessing multiple damaged bridge sites along with the Sri Lankan Army and Road Development Authority, the Indian team has begun urgent work at the Kilinochchi Bridge site. A modular Bailey bridge adaptable to local terrain is now being prepared to restore immediate connectivity.