Sri Lanka is taking urgent steps to address the costly clashes between villagers and wild elephants that have resulted in the deaths of nearly 1,200 people and over 3,500 animals in the past decade. Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi announced plans to build more electrified fences and deploy additional staff near wildlife sanctuaries to reduce elephant raids on villages. Despite the country’s laws making it a criminal offense to harm elephants, the conflicts persist as elephants continue to raid crops and destroy livelihoods.
The toll of human-elephant conflicts in Sri Lanka is considered shocking, with significant financial implications for the state. The disposal of elephant carcasses alone has cost about $11.6 million over the past decade. The government has allocated more funds to mitigate the situation and protect both people and wild animals. Opposition legislator Nalin Bandara called for authorities to ensure the safety of villagers while safeguarding the elephants, which are considered a national treasure in the country.
The challenges faced in Sri Lanka are not unique, as similar conflicts between humans and elephants occur in other regions as well. The Asian elephant population is recognized as endangered, with conservation efforts crucial to their survival. The recent incident of seven elephants, including four calves, being killed by a train highlights the ongoing threats these animals face. The government’s commitment to addressing these conflicts and protecting both human and wildlife interests is a step in the right direction towards finding a sustainable solution to this pressing issue.
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