Railways Dept. to implement new strategy

The Department of Railways was working on a new strategy to prevent animals colliding with trains.

This is following a recommendation made by the committee appointed to make recommendations on preventing elephant–train collisions.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror, committee member Irosh Perera said they had planned to construct over-head tracks and underground tunnel to prevent such collisions.

“This project is done in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, the Railways Departement and the Wildlife Department.

“The research on this project commenced three years ago. We have identified 20 vulnerable underpass locations where movements of animals especially elephants could be seen” Mr. Perera said.

He said the project was on the move and a hot-line (0704445454) had been made available in order to inform them regarding any animal movements across railways. (Sheain Fernandopulle)