Islandwide operation launched to protect elephants and reduce human-elephant conflict

The Ministry of Environment has launched an islandwide operation named ‘Hasthi Sena’ to protect elephants from life-threatening dangers and minimise human-elephant conflict.

According to the Ministry, the operation was launched today (02) in Galkiriyagama, in the North Western Wildlife Zone, with an initial focus on 17 elephants identified as being at risk.

The programme is being jointly implemented by the Ministry of Environment, the Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Tri-Forces.

Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Environment said the operation is expected to cover approximately 80 percent of areas inhabited by elephants, while the remaining 20 percent will be addressed through a separate programme.

The initiative includes continuous raids and legal action against the use of illegal firearms, hakka patas (explosive bait), unauthorised electric fences and snares that pose threats to elephants.

According to the Ministry, 60 military personnel participated in the initial operation, alongside 10 operational teams organised under six groups.

The islandwide programme will be carried out under the direct supervision of Army Commander Lieutenant General Nilantha Premaratne.

North Western Province Wildlife Director Pushpantha Wimaladasa, Environment Ministry Adviser Ravindra Kariyawasam and several senior military officers also attended the launch.

The Ministry said the operation will continue through coordinated efforts involving wildlife authorities, government institutions and security forces, with the aim of protecting elephants and reducing human-elephant conflict. (Newswire)