A meeting was held yesterday (June 17) under the patronage of Defence Secretary – Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha to address the recurring damage caused by wild elephants to the security fence at Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA).
Senior officials from the Civil Security Department, Department of Wildlife Conservation, Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Pvt. Ltd., the Tri-Forces, and the Ministry of Defence had also attended the discussion.
The discussion focused on implementing both immediate repairs and long-term preventive measures, with the Defence Secretary instructing the Tri-Forces and all relevant agencies to act swiftly.
He emphasized the need for sustainable solutions that balance airport security with the natural movement of wildlife, and called for continued coordination among stakeholders to ensure timely implementation.