Wild elephant-train collision in Habarana causes derailment

A train derailed in the area of Hathareskotuwa in Habarana at around 5.00 a.m. this morning (Jan 13), Ada Derana learns.

Reportedly, an intercity express train, heading from Batticaloa to Colombo Fort, had collided with a wild elephant crossing the railway tracks near the 138th railroad milepost.

The accident resulted in the death of the wild elephant, found to be aged between 20-25 years. The post-mortem of the deceased animal is scheduled to be conducted today.

Railway workers are taking necessary measures to repair the damaged tracks. Meanwhile, trains operating on the Batticaloa-Colombo and Trincomalee-Colombo lines are experiencing delays owing to the situation.