Over the past decade, Sri Lanka has witnessed a heartbreaking loss of over 3,000 wild elephants due to the escalating human-elephant conflict. This conflict has also claimed the lives of nearly 1,200 people, highlighting a pressing issue that demands urgent attention.
According to Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi, between 2015 and 2019, 1,466 elephants died, and the numbers have since surged, with 2,011 more fatalities recorded from 2020 to 2024. Human casualties have also increased, with 456 deaths between 2015 and 2019 and 734 from 2020 to 2024.
“Resolving the human-elephant conflict will take time,” Minister Patabendi told parliament. He assured lawmakers that adequate funds would be allocated in the upcoming budget to tackle the crisis.
The government’s plan includes constructing electric fences, reopening blocked elephant corridors, and increasing the availability of food in the forests where elephants reside. These measures aim to reduce encounters between elephants and humans, which often lead to tragic outcomes.
Sri Lanka is home to a significant population of wild elephants, a symbol of cultural heritage and biodiversity. However, habitat loss and fragmentation have forced elephants into closer proximity with human settlements, leading to competition over space and resources.
Conservationists emphasize the importance of finding sustainable solutions that protect both human communities and elephant populations. Raising awareness among local communities, promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices, and involving stakeholders at all levels are crucial steps toward mitigating this conflict.
The loss of such a large number of elephants not only affects biodiversity but also has cultural and ecological repercussions. Efforts to preserve these majestic creatures are essential for maintaining the natural balance and heritage of Sri Lanka.
