The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has called for urgent public cooperation to prevent the tragic deaths of wild elephants caused by unauthorized use of electricity.

So far in 2024, approximately 50 elephants have reportedly died due to illegal connections of electricity supply to fences or wires, according to the CEB. These deaths highlight the increasing threats posed to the country’s wild elephants, a vital part of Sri Lanka’s biodiversity and cultural heritage.

The CEB has already implemented several measures to address this issue and is urging the public to report any unauthorized electricity connections that pose a danger to wildlife. Citizens are encouraged to contact the CEB via the hotline 1987 or call 0112 118 767 to provide information on such illegal activities.

“Wild elephants are not only a symbol of our biodiversity but also hold religious and cultural significance and attract both local and foreign tourists, contributing significantly to the economy,” the CEB said in its statement.

The CEB invited all Sri Lankans to join the effort to protect the country’s wild elephants, which face extinction due to human activities. Public cooperation, the CEB emphasized, is crucial to safeguarding this invaluable resource for future generations.