Colombo:Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya expressed deep sorrow over the death of Tusker Kavanthissa, a national treasure that succumbed to gunshot wounds. She vowed that environmental laws will be enforced impartially against anyone committing environmental crimes, without favoritism.

According to News.LK, the Prime Minister made these remarks during the Presidential Environmental Awards 2026 at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall. The event, organized by the Central Environmental Authority under the Ministry of Environment, recognized institutions for sustainable management practices, with Dr. Amarasuriya presenting Gold Awards.

The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of a clean environment alongside economic progress, emphasizing the Clean Sri Lanka programme’s role in waste reduction and environmental awareness. She asserted that tragedies like Kavanthissa’s should not recur, advocating for transparent and scientifically-based project approvals.

Despite efforts by wildlife officers and veterinary teams, Kavanthissa could not be saved, prompting the government to bolster veterinary care and education. Measures to mitigate human-elephant conflicts include designating 113 forest reserves and creating elephant corridors. The Department of Wildlife Conservation has been equipped with vehicles and personnel to maintain elephant fences.

The government is also amending the National Environmental Act and increasing staff at the Ministry of Environment. Dr. Amarasuriya called for integrating environmental conservation into government policy and daily life, supporting green technologies, and fostering environmental responsibility through education and religious institutions. She urged public cooperation to preserve the environment for future generations.

The event was attended by several ministers, government officials, foreign representatives, and award recipients.