🌪️ Cyclone Ditwah Aftermath: Sri Lanka Faces Call for Structural Reform

• Catastrophic Impact: Cyclone Ditwah, which struck on 27 November, caused widespread flooding, catastrophic landslides, leaving hundreds dead, many missing, and millions displaced, marking it among the most severe disasters in recent memory. • Systemic Failures: The crisis exposed major weaknesses in institutional preparedness, urban planning, and the lack of strict enforcement of land-use regulations. Many of the worst-hit properties were located in warned floodplains and slopes. • Private Sector Conduct: "Some" companies faced criticism for prioritizing commercial activities (e.g., Black Friday sales) over employee safety, failing to implement WFH or allow early departure. Traders were also noted for accruing profits on essential food items. • Relief & Solidarity: Rescue and recovery efforts were mounted by tri-forces, Police, and volunteers. Regional support was rapid, notably from the Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, providing helicopters and relief supplies. • Path to Resilience: The tragedy is a critical turning point, demanding structural reform—including rebuilding infrastructure to higher standards, integrating climate risk into national planning, and enforcing accountability—to ensure future storms are less destructive.