Last Elephant Calf, Critically Injured in Tragic 'Meenagaya' Collision, Succumbs to Injuries

COLOMBO (News 1st); The number of elephants killed after the Batticaloa-Colombo train, ‘Meenagaya’, collided with a herd of elephants at Gal Oya has risen to seven, with the critically injured elephant calf also summbing to its injuries. 

The incident occurred at late night on the 19th of February on the Batticaloa railway line when a herd of seven elephants, crossing the railway track from the Kaudulla National Park, was struck by the train.

Five of the seven elephants died on the spot, while two others sustained critical injuries.

Meanwhile, a group including the Minister of State for Housing, T.B. Sarath, along with the heads of the Departments of Wildlife and Railways, inspected the site of the accident today.

Following the inspection, a discussion was held with their participation regarding measures to prevent collisions with elephants on the railway, which took place at the Kaudulla National Park.

During the meeting, extensive discussions were held on the necessary actions to prevent such accidents.