A wild elephant was struck and killed by a fuel train on the Eastern Railway Line between Habarana and Hatares Kotuwa stations yesterday (03).
Officials from Kaudulla National Park reported the train, travelling from Colombo to Batticaloa, hit the animal at around 12.55 am.
The 12-year-old elephant was allegedly dragged for nearly one hundred metres.
Investigations suggest the elephant was crossing from Hurulu Forest Reserve to Gal Oya National Park.
Wildlife officials and local residents indicated the accident may have resulted from careless train operation despite numerous warnings issued to train drivers against speeding on the particular stretch.
Officials said that a post-mortem would be held.