Sri Lanka Adjusts Train Timings to Tackle Elephant Deaths

A Series of Low-Tech Measures Announced

Sri Lanka’s wildlife and railway authorities have announced a series of low-tech measures to reduce night-time train collisions following the worst wildlife accident that killed seven elephants. The measures include adjusting timetables to reduce collisions in areas prone to accidents involving wildlife.

Vulnerable Stretches of Railway Tracks Identified

Authorities have identified vulnerable stretches of railway tracks in elephant-inhabited forest areas in the island’s northern and eastern regions, and mitigation measures are already underway. “We have started clearing shrubs on either side of the tracks to allow drivers to see more clearly if herds are near,” railway spokesman V. S. Polwattage told reporters in Colombo.

Reducing Train Frequency at Night

Fewer trains are being operated at night in areas prone to accidents involving wildlife. Additionally, power-set trains, which have better braking power, are being deployed to minimize collisions.

Filling Gaps in Sleepers and Solar-Powered Lights

Wildlife Conservation Director Manjula Amararathna said authorities have begun filling gaps between sleepers – the logs that sit in parallel under the rail – to prevent elephants from getting stuck if they attempt to escape approaching trains. Solar-powered lights are also being used to illuminate the tracks, and motion sensors are being installed to alert drivers to wild animals on the tracks.

Historical Data Reveals High Number of Elephant Fatalities

Amararathna said 138 elephants have been killed by trains in the past 17 years, since authorities began collecting data. Two weeks ago, the government announced that 1,195 people and 3,484 animals had been killed in a decade due to the worsening human-elephant conflict on the island.

Killing or Harming Elephants is a Criminal Offense

Killing or harming elephants is a criminal offense in Sri Lanka, which has an estimated 7,000 wild elephants, considered a national treasure partly due to their significance in Buddhist culture. However, the killings continue as desperate farmers struggle with elephants raiding their crops and destroying livelihoods.

Conclusion

Sri Lanka’s efforts to reduce train collisions with elephants demonstrate the country’s commitment to protecting both human and animal life. The low-tech measures announced are a step in the right direction, and it is hoped that they will lead to a reduction in the number of elephant fatalities.

FAQs

* How many elephants have been killed by trains in the past 17 years?
138
* How many people and animals have been killed in a decade due to the human-elephant conflict?
1,195 people and 3,484 animals
* Is killing or harming elephants a criminal offense in Sri Lanka?
Yes
* How many wild elephants are estimated to be in Sri Lanka?
7,000