The Ministry of Environment has urged the public to maintain a quiet and peaceful environment around the treatment area of Kawanthissa, an elephant in critical condition, to avoid disrupting his treatment.
Specialist veterinary teams from the Department of Wildlife Conservation are working around the clock to save the elephant’s life. The Ministry said the teams are providing saline and essential medication while continuing scientific treatment procedures to stabilise his condition.
The Ministry warned that crowds gathering near the treatment site could cause severe stress to the elephant and interfere with the veterinary team’s sensitive work.
The public has been asked to:
- Avoid unnecessary entry into or gathering around the treatment area.
- Refrain from making loud noises or using drones.
- Allow veterinarians to carry out their work without disturbance.
The Ministry stressed that the best way for those concerned about Kawanthissa to show their support is to protect the quiet environment he needs and allow the veterinary team to focus on saving his life.
( Previous news 2026 October 16 – 311:57 a.m.)
Concern sparks after Kawanthissa found lying in paddy field
The tusker named ‘Kawanthissa’, which has been roaming in the Galgamuwa area and is currently considered the largest tusker in Sri Lanka, has reportedly been spotted lying in a paddy field.
A few days ago, Kawanthissa was treated for an injury caused by a bullet lodged above one of his legs.
Although it was later reported that the tusker had recovered and was roaming freely, he was subsequently observed entering the water and remaining there for extended periods.
Meanwhile, the Department of Wildlife Conservation said the tusker had also received treatment yesterday (Oct. 15).
Treatment is being carried out today (Oct. 16) under the supervision of Director (Wildlife Health) and Veterinary Surgeon Ganga Wijesinghe, Veterinary Surgeon Dr Chandana Jayasinghe, Veterinary Surgeon Isuru Hewakotte, and veterinary surgeons from Pinnawala Zoo.
Meanwhile, Minister of Environment Dhammika Patabendi also attended the treatment session.
During the visit, the Minister instructed the relevant officials on matters concerning the tusker’s health, the treatment plan currently being implemented, and the medical and conservation measures to be taken in the future.
It was also decided to deploy a drone capable of conducting night-time observations to monitor the tusker’s behaviour.
The Department of Wildlife Conservation further stated that wildlife field officers had been deployed to monitor the elephant throughout the night.
Meanwhile, many environmentalists have been sharing social media posts about Kawanthissa’s condition.
Prominent businessman Dudley Sirisena also posted on Facebook, stating: “At this time, ask us for any help we can provide to protect the tusker.”
Pics – Facebook
