Fuel Train Derails After Elephant Collision in Minneriya

COLOMBO (News 1st); A fuel transport train traveling from Colombo to Batticaloa derailed early this morning after colliding with wild elephants near the Minneriya - Rotawewa area.

The incident occurred around 3:30 AM, causing two fuel tanks to overturn. 

Tragically, two elephants were killed in the collision, and two more were critically injured, according to our correspondent.

The derailment has caused significant damage to the railway tracks. 

As a result, the Meenagaya express train from Batticaloa had to be halted at Polonnaruwa.

The railway control room announced the cancellation of train number 6011, which was scheduled to operate from Colombo Fort to Batticaloa this morning.

Additionally, the train scheduled to depart from Batticaloa to Colombo Fort at 6:10 AM today has also been canceled.