A passenger train has hit a herd of elephants near a wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka, killing six of the animals. Four babies and two adults died near Minneriya, about 124 miles from the capital, Colombo. No passengers were injured. Local television channels showed the train engine and several compartments had derailed following the crash.
![[A sign board alerting wild elephants is placed near the site where a passenger train hit a herd and killed six elephants in Minneriya, Sri Lanka, Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Priyan Malinda)]](https://e3.365dm.com/25/02/768x432/skynews-elephants-train-collision_6835393.jpg?20250221101345)
The country's wildlife department was investigating the collision. Minneriya 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.
Train collisions involving elephants have increased in recent years in Sri Lanka, with elephants attempting to cross over railway tracks in search of food and water. Elephants are increasingly vulnerable because of the loss and degradation of their natural habitat. Many venture closer to human settlements in search of food.
Nine elephants died in 2024 after being struck by trains, compared with 24 in 2023, according to government statistics. Be the first to get Breaking News. Install the Sky News app for free. Follow our channel and never miss an update. Some are also killed by poachers or farmers angry over damage to their crops.
