Colombo: A high-level discussion was convened today at the Nila Medura in Narahenpita, Colombo 5 under the patronage of the Minister of Public Administration, Local Government, and Provincial Councils, Dr. A.H.M.H. Abeyratne, along with the Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd.), to discuss sustainable solutions for mitigating the escalating human-elephant conflict in the Puttalam District.

According to Ministry of Defence, special focus was given to addressing the impact of destructions caused by wild elephants on agricultural lands and the livelihood of people, particularly in the Divisional Secretariat Divisions of Pallama, Arachchikattuwa, Anamaduwa, Puttalam, Wanathavilluwa, Karuwalagaswewa, and Nawagaththegama. Measures aimed at relocating elephants that have encroached on villages to the Wilpattu and Thabbowa protected reserves were extensively discussed. The contribution of the tri-services in the ongoing conservation efforts was also recognized during the discussion.

Key strategies proposed at the meeting include the designation of protected areas for elephants, the use of advanced elephant fencing and real-time monitoring mechanisms, and community awareness initiatives to promote sustainable human-elephant coexistence.

The discussion saw the participation of senior officials, including the Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, Army Commander, Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo, senior tri-service officers, and senior state representatives.