Train services on the Batticaloa-Colombo main line have been disrupted between Hingurakgoda and Gal Oya railway stations after a fuel train collided with a herd of elephants, the Railways Department said.
They said two elephants died in the accident, and a few others in the herd were reported to be injured.
The incident occurred at 3:30 a.m. today near the Minneriya railway station, while the train was transporting fuel from the Kolonnawa Petroleum Storage Terminal to Batticaloa.
The department reported that the railway line was severely damaged, with four fuel carriages derailed, two of which overturned. The train engine and another compartment also derailed.
As a result of the accident, the train scheduled to run from Colombo Fort to Batticaloa this morning has been canceled.
The department added that direct trains between Colombo Fort and Batticaloa may not operate for several days.