Randeniya Bandara, the famous elephant formerly known as the "Waragoda Elephant," was seriously injured in a road accident in the Omaragolla area along the Kurunegala–Melsiripura Road.

According to reports, the elephant was crossing the road after being unloaded from a transport lorry due to a mechanical failure while being taken from Randeniya, Kegalle, to the annual Perahera at the Manampitiya Temple.

At that moment, a speeding tipper truck carrying sand from Dambulla towards Kurunegala reportedly struck the elephant, dragging it nearly 50 metres.

Veterinary officers from the Department of Wildlife Conservation rushed to the scene and immediately began emergency treatment to stabilise the elephant.

Police have arrested the driver of the tipper truck in connection with the incident.

The accident involving one of Sri Lanka's best-known elephants has sparked widespread concern among wildlife lovers and conservationists, who are hoping for the elephant's speedy recovery.

Wildlife enthusiasts have once again urged motorists to drive carefully and responsibly in areas where wild and domestic elephants frequently cross roads.