Colombo, May 28 (Daily Mirror) – A major railway accident was narrowly averted when a train driver and a wildlife officer acted swiftly to prevent a collision with a wild elephant crossing the tracks between Habarana and Palugaswewa.

The incident occurred as the Batticaloa–Colombo train was passing through the area. A wild elephant was seen crossing the railway line, creating a tense situation as the train rapidly approached.

A wildlife officer travelling in the train reportedly spotted the animal first and immediately alerted the driver. Responding quickly, the driver managed to slow and bring the train under control, preventing a potential crash.

Mobile phone footage captured the elephant crossing the tracks moments before the train arrived, underscoring how close the situation was to disaster.

Authorities say the coordinated response helped avert what could have been a serious accident involving both passengers and wildlife.