Bhathiya, the iconic tusker battling gunshot wounds, has tragically passed away despite intense veterinary intervention in Polpithigama. His fall into a water hole marked the beginning of a desperate race against time that ended in heartbreak.
In a tragic blow to wildlife conservation efforts, the beloved Bathiya elephant has died despite determined attempts by wildlife officials and veterinarians to save its life after sustaining critical gunshot wounds.
Bathiya, a majestic tusker revered by locals and elephant enthusiasts alike, was found trapped inside a water hole in the Polpithigama area several days ago. The elephant had suffered severe injuries from suspected gunshots, which left it too weak to stand or escape on its own. Upon discovery, a rescue mission was immediately launched by the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
Veterinary experts and local wildlife teams began by draining water from the pit in a delicate effort to stabilize the situation without causing the elephant further stress. Once the water level was sufficiently reduced, the team commenced intravenous saline treatment to rehydrate and support the weakened animal.
However, due to significant muscle deterioration and trauma from the injuries, Bathiya was unable to be lifted or moved to safety. Instead, the rescue teams attempted to administer treatment within the confines of the muddy pit, at its shallowest point, hoping that the elephant would recover enough strength to stand on its own.
Tragically, despite around-the-clock efforts, the condition of Bathiya continued to decline. In the early hours of July 15, the tusker succumbed to its injuries, sending shockwaves through the conservation community and wildlife lovers across the island.
The incident raises renewed concerns about the ongoing threat posed by illegal gun use in wildlife zones and the lack of swift enforcement to protect Sri Lanka’s iconic elephants.
Bathiya’s death is being mourned as not just the loss of an animal, but the fall of a national treasure whose presence brought awe and reverence wherever he roamed.
