Bathiya Collapses Again, Lifted with Help

Bathiya, the elephant who collapsed for the second time, was once again lifted today with mechanical assistance

Bathiya the elephant, currently in a weakened and deteriorated physical state, remains near the Polpithigama reservoir close to the Daladagama area. Reportedly, the elephant was not fed during the morning hours yesterday, as the designated wildlife officer responsible for his care had not been present. It was only around 5 PM that the officer arrived and provided food.

The prolonged period without nourishment may have contributed significantly to the elephant’s frail condition. Today, he was found collapsed once again in the same area. Coincidentally, today had already been scheduled as a treatment day, and a veterinary team was present at the time. They administered medical care, and by evening, the elephant was lifted again using mechanical equipment.

However, it is evident that the elephant's body remains severely emaciated.

A key question being raised by many is: why hasn't another trained individual been assigned to ensure the elephant receives regular food, especially in the absence of the designated officer?

Why is the Department of Wildlife Conservation allowing the same failures to repeat time and again, despite prior incidents and ongoing concerns?