In an attempt to safeguard its elephant population, Sri Lanka introduced revised train times after seven elephants were crushed to death by a speeding express train on February 20. This action is in an effort to minimize wildlife-train collisions, a common factor in areas where railway lines cut through elephant reservations.
Train schedules have been modified in high-risk zones, especially at night when elephant movement is more common. Speed restrictions are also being implemented in wildlife corridors, and early warning systems are being considered to inform train drivers of elephant crossings.
Sri Lanka, which is home to close to 6,000 wild elephants, has experienced increasing human-wildlife conflict, and train accidents have been a major risk factor for these magnificent animals. The new regulations have been welcomed by conservationists but are calling for additional efforts, including exclusive underpasses and enhanced monitoring, to guarantee long-term protection.
Government officials highlight that the new timetables are part of a larger conservation campaign to strike a balance between wildlife protection and infrastructure development. Railway authorities still consult with environmental specialists to identify long-term solutions to prevent such catastrophes.
