Colombo, Oct. 15 (Daily Mirror) - Thermal-imaging drones are to be deployed to monitor the nighttime behaviour of the ailing elephant Kavantissa as authorities seek to obtain more detailed information to support its treatment.
The measure was initiated following an inspection by Environment Minister Dr. Dhammika Patabendi, who highlighted the importance of observing the elephant’s movements, water consumption and other activities during the night.
The Minister facilitated arrangements to obtain drones equipped with thermal-imaging technology to enable observations in low-light conditions.
The information gathered through nighttime monitoring is expected to help the veterinary team better understand Kavantissa’s behaviour and make informed decisions regarding its ongoing treatment.
The elephant’s treatment plan has been developed through the combined expertise of veterinarians from the Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Department of National Zoological Gardens, together with professors from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Peradeniya.
The Minister has also instructed the relevant authorities to strengthen coordination among the institutions involved and seek additional veterinary expertise whenever required.