Sri Lanka to draft new national plan to tackle human–elephant conflict

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to draft a new National Action Plan for Human–Elephant Conflict Management, as Sri Lanka continues to grapple with escalating clashes between people and wild elephants.

According to the government, rapid population growth, deforestation, and expanding development projects have destroyed traditional migratory routes and habitats, intensifying the conflict across 19 districts and 134 Divisional Secretariat Divisions. 

The 2024 wild elephant census estimated the population at around 7,450, with the conflict causing significant annual losses, including human fatalities, elephant deaths, and over a thousand property damage incidents.

Although a national plan was introduced in 2020, authorities said the situation has evolved considerably, requiring a fresh framework.

The Cabinet endorsed the Environment Minister’s proposal to appoint a committee tasked with formulating a new action plan, aimed at strengthening conservation efforts while safeguarding communities. (Newswire)

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