Sri Lanka Places Wildlife Offices on High Alert as Authorities Monitor Kawanthissa Elephant’s Health

The Ministry of Environment has instructed the Department of Wildlife Conservation to place all wildlife offices in areas frequented by Kawanthissa, the elephant, on high alert as authorities continue to monitor his health and provide necessary veterinary care.

The elephant’s current health condition is being closely monitored through daily online discussions involving officials from the Department of Wildlife Conservation and veterinary specialists, under the intervention of the Minister of Environment. These discussions focus on the elephant’s medical needs and the further action required to safeguard his well-being.

A further online meeting was held last night involving the Minister of Environment, the Deputy Minister of Environment, the Ministry Secretary, the Director General of Wildlife Conservation and the veterinary team.

Four Veterinary Teams Monitoring the Elephant

Veterinary teams, including Dr. Ganga, Dr. Chandana, Dr. Dharmakeerthi and Dr. Isuru, are working in coordination with relevant wildlife officials to monitor Kawanthissa’s condition continuously and provide the necessary medical treatment.

Authorities have also deployed a specialized team to observe changes in the elephant’s movements, including during the night.

Further medical decisions will be made based on changes in the elephant’s health and behavior. The Minister has instructed the relevant authorities to ensure that the necessary veterinary facilities, equipment and other resources are made available without delay.

The Minister has also assured that additional assistance will be provided through his intervention whenever required.

Wildlife Offices in High-Risk Areas on Alert

The Director General of Wildlife Conservation has been instructed to ensure that field officers maintain heightened vigilance and continue security and monitoring operations in areas frequented by Kawanthissa, including Galgamuwa, Giribawa and Meegalewa.

The Deputy Minister of Environment has also reviewed progress and instructed the Director General to continue providing the necessary attention and support.

Authorities say coordinated action involving all relevant parties will continue to ensure the elephant’s safety and provide veterinary treatment and other essential facilities according to his health condition.

The Department of Wildlife Conservation is continuing its monitoring efforts as officials work to safeguard Kawanthissa’s well-being.