A tragic incident occurred in Minneriya, Sri Lanka, when a train carrying thousands of gallons of fuel collided with a herd of wild elephants, resulting in the death of two elephants and injuring one. The collision took place in the town of Minneriya, which is known for its nature park and wildlife, located about 200 kilometers from the capital city of Colombo.
The train driver, N.W. Jayalath, described how nearly 20 elephants suddenly tried to cross the railway track, leaving no time for the train to avoid the collision. As a result, four elephants were knocked down, and two petrol tankers derailed, causing significant damage to the railway tracks and suspending train services on that line.
Fortunately, the train conductor and other railway personnel on board were unharmed. The injured elephant was treated and released back to its herd by wildlife officials.
Wild elephant populations in Sri Lanka are facing increasing threats due to habitat loss and degradation, leading to more frequent collisions with trains. This incident is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by these majestic creatures, whose numbers have dwindled over the years.
Despite efforts to protect elephants, such as designated elephant corridors and conservation initiatives, the conservation status of elephants remains precarious in Sri Lanka. The government’s statistics highlight the urgent need for measures to mitigate human-elephant conflicts and ensure the survival of these iconic animals.
By Bharatha Mallawarachi
