Elephant calf killed in lorry collision in Galgamuwa

By Jayasiri - Galgamuwa

A two-year-old elephant calf was killed after a herd of elephants collided with a lorry on the Anuradhapura–Padeniya road in the Galgamuwa Mee Oya area, wildlife officials said.

The incident occurred as a herd returning to the Teak Reserve after foraging for food during the night attempted to cross the road near the Galgamuwa bridge, at the beginning of the Alikele area—an identified elephant crossing point. The lorry, which was travelling from Padeniya towards Anuradhapura, struck the calf, killing it at the scene.

Two individuals were travelling in the lorry at the time of the incident, and no injuries were reported. According to local residents, the vehicle fled the scene following the collision.

The deceased calf was later seen lying in the middle of the road, prompting concern among residents and motorists. Officers from the Galgamuwa Wildlife Officer’s Office have commenced investigations into the incident.

Wildlife authorities have repeatedly warned motorists to exercise extreme caution when travelling through known elephant corridors, particularly during night-time hours. Video footage related to the incident has surfaced and is currently circulating.