28th May 2024 16:48:07 Hours
A passenger train travelling from Kankasanthurei to Anuradhapura collided with a herd of wild elephants, causing significant disruption and endangering animal lives.
In response to this critical situation, two teams from the 561 Infantry Brigade and the 16 Sri Lanka Singha Regiment swiftly deployed under the direction of Major General S. Kasthurimudali RSP ndc psc, General Officer Commanding of the 56 Infantry Division, and supervised by Colonel R.S.C. Dissanayake RSP, Overlooking Brigade Commander of the 561 Infantry Brigade. These teams, along with Department of Wildlife Officers and Railway Officers, launched an immediate rescue mission.
Their primary focus was ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the train passengers, providing necessary assistance, and stabilizing the situation. Simultaneously, Wildlife Officers assessed the condition of the elephants, confirming one death and an injury to a baby elephant. The injured animal received prompt medical attention and care.
To restore normalcy, the teams worked tirelessly to clear debris and repair the damaged railway tracks. Their relentless efforts, performed over nearly ten hours, ensured the swift normalization of the railway route between Anuradhapura and Kankasanthurei, minimizing disruption to this vital transportation link.
