Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa has called for the creation of a special task force dedicated to protecting Sri Lanka’s remaining tusker elephants, alongside establishing a wildlife hospital and a rapid-response system to treat injured elephants. His proposals, outlined during a parliamentary session on October 20, come in the wake of recent high-profile elephant deaths, including that of a prominent tusker named Kavanthissa.

Premadasa emphasized the urgent need for stronger wildlife protection measures and improved emergency treatment capacities to prevent further losses of these iconic animals. He suggested that the task force should comprise experienced wildlife officers, such as Chathura Gunaratne, along with the investigation team led by Assistant Superintendent of Police Rohan Olugala, which was involved in the arrest connected to Kavanthissa’s death. Their expertise, he argued, is crucial to enhancing efforts to safeguard endangered elephants and strengthen law enforcement against wildlife crimes.

In addition to the task force, Premadasa proposed the establishment of a dedicated wildlife hospital equipped with modern diagnostic tools, mobile laboratories, emergency treatment units, and a rapid-response mechanism to address injuries promptly, particularly for elephants requiring specialized care. He pledged the opposition’s support in securing foreign funding and resources to develop such facilities and suggested the involvement of international veterinary experts for complex medical cases.

Addressing existing challenges, Premadasa highlighted the shortage of wildlife veterinarians and trained personnel within the Department of Wildlife Conservation. He urged increased staffing and upgrades to medical infrastructure to improve overall treatment capabilities. The opposition leader also called for enhanced collaboration among wildlife authorities, universities, and other relevant institutions to bolster conservation efforts.

Further, Premadasa recommended including representatives from environmental organizations and civil society on the expert committee investigating Kavanthissa’s death, stating their presence would contribute to greater transparency and accountability throughout the process.

Citing the recent deaths of tuskers Kavanthissa, Bhathiya, and Thekka Raja, Premadasa stressed that these incidents should serve as catalysts for improving treatment protocols and emergency response systems. He underlined the necessity for practical reforms, robust veterinary support, and coordinated action to protect Sri Lanka’s remaining tuskers, rather than adopting a reactive approach only after such animals have already died.