In a decisive move to curb the escalating human–elephant conflict, the Ministry of Environment has announced plans to establish special elephant monitoring units across five high-risk districts.
Environment Minister Dr. Dhammika Patanbendi confirmed that the units will be set up in Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Puttalam, Trincomalee, and Kurunegala, areas that have reported frequent clashes between humans and wild elephants.
The monitoring posts will be staffed by wildlife officers, Civil Security personnel, and Army soldiers, ensuring round-the-clock surveillance and rapid response to incidents involving elephants entering human settlements.
The decision follows weeks of consultations with all relevant agencies, aimed at developing a coordinated national strategy to protect both human lives and elephant populations.
Authorities say the new units will focus on early detection, quick intervention, and preventing damage to crops, homes, and infrastructure, while also minimizing harm to wildlife.
Human–elephant conflict remains a major issue in Sri Lanka, particularly in rural districts bordering forest reserves, with frequent reports of injuries, fatalities, and property damage.
