A fuel train derailed between the Hingurakgoda and Gal Oya railway stations after colliding with a herd of wild elephants early this morning (18).
The collision resulted in the deaths of two elephants, with several others injured.
The Railway Department reported that four fuel tankers went off the tracks, with two overturning, while the train’s engine and another compartment also derailed.
The incident has caused heavy damage to the railway track. All train services on the Batticaloa-Colombo main line have been suspended, and the scheduled trains between Colombo Fort and Batticaloa have also been cancelled.
The train was transporting fuel from the Kolonnawa Petroleum Storage Terminal to Batticaloa early this morning. (Newswire)
