Minister of Environment Dr. Dammika Patabedige conducted an emergency inspection visit to review the current health condition of the ailing elephant “Kavantissa” and formalize ongoing medical treatment protocols.
During the visit, the Minister focused on the elephant’s health status and the treatment plan jointly formulated by experts from the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Department of National Zoological Gardens and professors from the Peradeniya Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. He instructed officials to secure additional expert veterinary assistance from the zoological department as needed and to strengthen inter-agency coordination.
To monitor the elephant’s night-time behavior, movement patterns, drinking habits and other activities, the Minister intervened to coordinate the procurement of thermal drone technology. This equipment will provide clearer nocturnal activity data to assist the veterinary team in making informed treatment decisions.
Emphasizing the need for a rapid response plan in case of sudden health changes, the Minister instructed relevant sectors to coordinate with the Sri Lanka Armed Forces. This includes the potential deployment of a 25-member emergency support team, alongside pre-arranging specialized equipment, safety harnesses, lifting gear, transport assistance, backhoes, boom trucks or other suitable machinery for urgent medical positioning.
Daily updates and progress reviews regarding treatment plans and logistical needs will continue to be coordinated through daily Zoom discussions involving veterinary surgeons and officials. The Minister stressed that while aiming for the best possible recovery outcomes, authorities should remain fully prepared for any severe contingencies to protect the elephant’s life and health under expert medical guidance. (Newswire)
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