Express train derails after colliding with wild Elephant in Habarana

The incident occurred in a forested area known for elephant crossings, according to railway officials. Initial reports indicate that the train was moving at high speed when it struck the animal, causing several carriages to derail. Emergency services and railway personnel were dispatched to the scene promptly.

No fatalities among passengers have been reported so far, although several individuals sustained minor injuries and were treated at nearby medical facilities. The elephant reportedly died on impact.

Railway authorities have temporarily suspended services on the affected line while recovery operations and investigations are underway. Wildlife officers have also been notified to assess the situation and prevent similar incidents in the future.

This marks another unfortunate incident in the ongoing conflict between expanding transport infrastructure and wildlife habitats in Sri Lanka’s dry zone.