Over 100 wild elephants relocated to forest reserves Hiran Priyankara, Daily Mirror April 4, 2025 See link <https://www.dailymirror.lk/news/Over-100-wild-elephants-relocated-to-forest-reserves/239-305975> for photo. More than 100 wild elephants have been successfully driven into forest reserves as part of an ongoing operation to mitigate the damage caused by the animals in nearby villages. The operation, which began on March 15 in the Andigama area, aims to reduce the impact of the elephants as they roam into human habitats and cause extensive destruction. Wildlife conservation officers have raised concerns about the safety and well-being of the elephants, particularly as some of them flee towards the forest reserves. During their movement, several of the elephants have entered villages such as Ethungoda, Kottukachchiya Usbima, and Kachchimaduwa, where they have destroyed cultivated land, home gardens, and damaged several houses. Officials have stated that despite the challenges, the operation is ongoing with significant support from the Air Force, the Navy, and the Civil Security Department. The operation is being closely monitored under the supervision of Dr. Chandana Abeyratne, the Minister of Local Government and Provincial Councils. https://www.dailymirror.lk/news/Over-100-wild-elephants-relocated-to-forest-reserves/239-305975