Train strikes elephant herd in Sri Lanka, killing 6 animals

A passenger train hit an elephant herd near a wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka, killing six of the animals, an official said Thursday.

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka — A passenger train hit an elephant herd near a wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka, killing six of the animals, an official said Thursday.

Four babies and two adults died near Minneriya, about 124 miles from the capital, Colombo. The area is renowned for its nature park and wildlife, said Hasini Sarathchandra, a spokesman for the government’s wildlife department.

Local television channels showed the train engine and several compartments had derailed following the collision. No passenger was injured, said a railway official, who declined to be named as he was not authorized to speak to the media.

Sarathchandra said the wildlife department was investigating.

A passenger train hit an elephant herd near a wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka, killing six of the animals.AFP - Getty ImagesMinneriya National Park draws thousands of tourists each year hoping to see elephants in their wild habitats. It is part of the “elephant corridor” that connects Kaudulla and Wasgamuwa National parks.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/train-struck-elephant-herd-sri-lanka-killing-6-animals-rcna193109

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