Colombo, Oct. 21 (Daily Mirror) - The loss of tusker Kavantissa appears to have changed a familiar scene at the Gatadivula–Kasikote elephant crossing in Galgamuwa, where a herd that once followed the giant tusker across the road has been seen waiting by the roadside.
Several video clips circulating on social media show the elephants gathered near the crossing, bringing renewed attention to the challenges they face while moving through areas shared with people and vehicles.
Before his death, Kavantissa was known for leading the herd across the main road along the Anuradhapura–Colombo route. He would wait for vehicles to stop before crossing, while a local resident living near the Kasikote Elephant Tunnel helped halt traffic to allow the elephants to pass safely. Kavantissa was also known for lifting his trunk towards people after crossing, a gesture that became familiar to those who witnessed the encounters.
Following the tusker’s death, the herd has reportedly been seen waiting at the crossing without the elephant that once led the way. While the footage has prompted sadness among wildlife enthusiasts and local residents, the elephants’ behaviour alone does not establish why they are waiting.
The incident highlights the importance of protecting elephant movement routes and ensuring safe crossings in the Gatadivula–Kasikote area of Galgamuwa.
Construction of the wildlife tunnel beneath the railway line at Gatadivula–Kasikote began on March 1, 2024, as part of efforts to reduce elephant-train collisions. The crossing is located along the Mahawa–Omanthai railway rehabilitation route. However, the tunnel project has faced concerns over whether its design can accommodate fully grown elephants, while the nearby main road remains a potential danger to elephants crossing between habitats.