Sri Lanka Railways, which has been exploring solutions to resolve the increasing number of elephants being knocked down by trains, have commenced installing thermal camera systems on selected trains as part of measures taken to reduce collisions between elephants and trains
Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Dr. Ravindra Kariyawasam, the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Transport and Highways have jointly implemented several practical solutions aimed at addressing the issue, according to reports. Sri Lanka Railways has also taken measures to revise timetables of some trains as part of these efforts.
As a pilot initiative, thermal camera systems introduced by the Arthur C. Clarke Institute have been installed on several trains operating on railway lines where elephant movement is frequent. The installation of these systems was carried out on Wednesday (11) at the Dematagoda Railway Yard.
The effectiveness of the system is scheduled to be tested over a one-week period, with trial operations to be conducted on the Pulathisi train. Based on the results of the trial, decisions will be made regarding any further improvements required for the camera system, Dr Kariyawasam has stated in a Facebook post.
In addition, train drivers operating on the Northern and Batticaloa lines, as well as on routes passing through forested areas, have been advised to maintain increased vigilance during night operations in areas known for elephant crossings. Training programmes have been arranged for train drivers and railway staff, and steps have been taken to engage environmental groups willing to contribute voluntarily to the initiative.
Signboards have also been installed along railway tracks to provide advance warnings to train drivers in areas prone to elephant crossings.
Leave a comment