Wild elephants in Sri Lanka: National asset, not liability

Proper conservation strategies, including the establishment of protected areas and ecological corridors, can provide safe habitats for elephants, allowing for their peaceful coexistence with local communities (File Photo)

Wild elephants in Sri Lanka, while often seen as a source of conflict and destruction, can be considered a significant national asset, if managed effectively. Proper conservation strategies, including the establishment of protected areas and ecological corridors, can provide safe habitats for elephants, allowing for their peaceful coexistence with local communities. A proactive approach to wildlife management can help address human-elephant conflict, safeguard agricultural resources, and protect both human lives and property. However, it is also crucial to recognize that wild elephants face a serious risk of extinction due to habitat loss and increasing human encroachment.

The escalating conflict between humans and wild elephants is primarily the result of significant habitat destruction. Over recent decades, large areas of forest have been cleared for agricultural development, human settlements, and infrastructure projects. As their natural habitats have diminished, elephants have been forced to move into populated areas in search of food and water, leading to frequent crop raids and, tragically, loss of human lives. According to the Department of Wildlife Conservation, approximately 75–100 elephants are killed each year, and 25–35 human fatalities occur as a result of human elephant conflict.

This cycle of destruction is a direct consequence of the loss of elephant habitats and the resulting tensions between human communities and wildlife. If left unchecked, this trend threatens both the survival of the elephant population and the safety of local communities.

To address this critical issue, the government and citizens of Sri Lanka must take collective action to protect wild elephants and reduce human-elephant conflicts. 

The following measures are proposed for consideration.

Establish and Expand Protected Areas and Ecological Corridors: The creation of larger, interconnected protected areas and wildlife corridors would provide elephants with safe passage between different regions, ensuring they have access to food, water, and breeding sites. This would help prevent elephants from entering agricultural zones, reducing the likelihood of crop damage and human-elephant encounters. 

Increase Investment in Elephant Sanctuaries and Orphanages: More elephant sanctuaries and orphanages should be established to provide safe, secure environments for orphaned or injured elephants. These sanctuaries can serve as rehabilitation centers and contribute to raising public awareness about elephant conservation. They can also offer controlled environments where elephants can be cared for without the risk of conflict with humans.

Implement birth control programs 

In order to manage elephant population growth and reduce the pressure on available habitats, the government should explore the use of humane population control methods. One such option could be the use of intrauterine devices (IUDs) for female elephants, which would help regulate the population without harming individual animals. This method, if implemented carefully, could be an effective tool in long-term population management.

Utilize the Expertise of the Tri-Forces for Wildlife Protection: The Sri Lankan Tri-Forces (Army, Navy, and Air Force) have proven their discipline and capacity to assist in national security efforts. Their resources and personnel could be deployed in wildlife conservation efforts in collaboration with the relevant authorities,  particularly in areas where human-elephant conflict is most prevalent. Their involvement could help protect elephant habitats from illegal hunting and human encroachment, as well as provide essential security in wildlife reserves.

Promote Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Development: Developing and promoting eco-tourism centered around Sri Lanka’s elephant sanctuaries and protected areas could provide an additional source of revenue for the country. Attracting both local and international tourists to visit elephant habitats would generate foreign exchange and create economic incentives for local communities to support conservation efforts. This approach would also raise global awareness about the importance of protecting Sri Lanka’s wild elephant population.

Strengthen Public Awareness and Education: There is a critical need for nationwide education campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of elephants in Sri Lanka’s ecosystems and the long-term benefits of conservation. Local communities should be educated on ways to prevent human-elephant conflict, such as securing farms, using barriers, and adopting safe practices when elephants are near human settlements. Public engagement will be crucial in fostering a culture of coexistence between humans and wildlife.

Wild elephants in Sri Lanka represent a valuable natural resource that, if managed properly, can contribute to the country’s environmental and economic wellbeing. By implementing comprehensive conservation strategies, including habitat protection, population control, and eco-tourism, Sri Lanka can ensure the survival of its elephant population while minimizing conflicts with humans. It is crucial for the government, local communities, and national organizations to work together in addressing this pressing issue, safeguarding both the elephants and the people of Sri Lanka for future generations.

(The writer is a retired senior public servant of the SLAS and Leader, Sri Lanka Professionals Democratic Front. He can be reached on [email protected])