A devastating train collision near Gal Oya has claimed the lives of six elephants, with another critically injured. The Batticaloa-Colombo ‘Meenagaya’ train struck a herd of seven elephants crossing the tracks from Kawudulla Forest Reserve at 11:35 p.m. on the 19th.
Five elephants died instantly, while two were severely injured—one later succumbing to its injuries. The deceased elephants, aged 8, 15, and 20, included five females. Wildlife officers are now treating the surviving elephant, which remains in critical condition.
The impact caused the train to derail, disrupting services on the Batticaloa railway line. Operations were limited to Habarana, and the ‘Pulathisi’ train was canceled. A replacement train was arranged for passengers.
This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for better measures to prevent train-elephant collisions before more lives are lost.