Train Hits Herd of Elephants in Sri Lanka

A train carrying thousands of gallons of fuel collided with a herd of wild elephants in Minneriya, Sri Lanka, resulting in the death of two elephants and injuring another. The unexpected crossing of nearly 20 elephants led to the derailment of two petrol tankers, causing a significant petrol spill. Train services on this line have been suspended, according to the authorities.

The train's four crew members who escaped unharmed. The driver explained, "There was about 10 meters (32 feet) between us. So, we couldn't do anything. We pressed the breaks to their maximum capacity, but there was nothing much we could do. At least four elephants were knocked down."

Minneriya National Park, known for its elephant population, is part of a crucial corridor that connects with other parks, offering year-round elephant sightings to tourists. The elephant population in the country has dropped from 14,000 in the 19th century to 6,000 by 2011. Per government figures, seven elephants have died after being hit by trains thus far in 2024, compared to 24 last year. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)