Human-elephant conflict deaths decline in Sri Lanka

Human-elephant conflict has declined significantly in Sri Lanka this year compared with 2025, according to the Department of Wildlife Conservation.

Director General Ranjan Marasinghe said that, as of 21 August, 207 wild elephants had died in incidents linked to human-elephant conflict, while 88 people had lost their lives.

He said the figures showed a notable decline compared with the previous year, although he did not provide comparative data.

Marasinghe urged communities in areas affected by human-elephant conflict to remain vigilant as the prevailing dry weather has increased the movement of wild elephants in search of water and food.