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In the Minneriya Nature Reserve, a collision between a passenger train and a herd of elephants led to the death of six animals. Among the dead were four baby elephants. Two more elephants were injured and are currently under observation by veterinarians, snob.ru reports with reference to Associated Press.
The incident derailed several train carriages, but local authorities say no passengers were injured. The Department of Wildlife has launched an investigation into the incident.
According to the BBC, such collisions on Sri Lankan railways occur regularly. Statistics show that about 20 elephants die in such accidents every year. The situation with the interaction of people and wild animals on the island remains tense: in 2024, more than 170 human casualties and about 500 elephants were recorded.
Minneriya Game Reserve, where the incident took place, is a popular tourist destination where visitors can observe elephants in their natural habitat. It is part of the "elephant corridor" that connects Kaudulla and Wasgamuwa National Parks.