New Measures to Prevent Wild Elephant-Train Collisions on Eastern Railway Line

COLOMBO (News 1st): Attention has been focused on measures that can be taken to minimize the risk of wild elephants colliding with trains on the Eastern Railway Line.

This was discussed at a meeting held in Parliament yesterday to review the progress of the action plan prepared to minimize accidents caused by wild elephants colliding with trains and the harm done to wild elephants.

During the meeting, it was proposed to replace the locomotives currently running on the Eastern Railway Line with modern locomotives and train sets that allow better observation of the surrounding environment and efficient control of train speed.

Furthermore, a statement issued by the Ministry of Environment noted that discussions were held regarding adding high-powered engines that allow drivers to clearly observe the track ahead, as well as upgrading the signboards existing at places where wild elephants cross the railway tracks.

The Ministry of Environment stated that it has been proposed to provide alternative water sources to prevent wild elephants, who come to drink water in the area around the railway line between Habarana and Kantale railway stations, from coming near the tracks.

Accordingly, plans are also underway to implement a program to construct water pools at two suitable locations and supply water to them.

Additionally, attention will be directed toward installing solar-powered lighting systems equipped with motion sensors to enable clear observation along both sides of the railway tracks.

The Ministry also mentioned that a program has been proposed to install 30 hanging lamps powered by solar panels so that train drivers can clearly observe both sides of the railway track.