A ONCE-peaceful herd of about 150 elephants in southern Sri Lanka has turned violent, destroying property and killing humans in a last ditch attempt to save its habitat, writes Mallika Wanigasundara in a Panos report.
The pachyderms feel threatened by the Pelwatte Sugar Co -- an ill-conceived project that encroached upon the habitats of the elephants and restricted their freedom of movement. Nongovernmental organisations have suggested Handapangala, where the elephants are pocketed, be declared a protected area so that the animals have greater freedom of movement.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.