Train Derails After Colliding with Elephants in Sri Lanka, Six Elephants Killed
A Sri Lankan passenger train derailed Thursday morning after colliding with a herd of elephants, killing six animals. Fortunately, no passengers were injured in the incident, which occurred near a wildlife reserve at Habarana, located around 180 kilometers east of Colombo.
The train hit the elephants crossing the tracks just before dawn, resulting in the derailment. Police confirmed that wildlife authorities were treating two surviving elephants from the herd. Videos captured after the accident showed one elephant standing by an injured young elephant, with their trunks intertwined in an apparent show of protection.
Elephants are a national treasure in Sri Lanka, with the island’s estimated 7,000 wild elephants having cultural and religious significance, particularly in Buddhism. Killing or harming these animals is considered a criminal offense.
This incident comes after a similar tragedy in September 2018, when two baby elephants and a pregnant mother were killed by a train in the same area. Following that accident, authorities had instructed train drivers to adhere to speed limits to reduce the risk of such collisions.
The tragic deaths of these elephants occur amid growing concern over the conflict between humans and elephants, as their natural habitats continue to be encroached upon. Farmers, often dealing with crop damage caused by elephants, have increasingly been involved in conflicts with the animals.
In 2023, clashes between humans and elephants resulted in 150 human and 450 elephant fatalities, an increase from the previous year’s toll. Environment Deputy Minister Anton Jayakody stated that the government was exploring potential solutions, such as electric fences, trenches, and other deterrents, to prevent wild elephants from entering villages.
