November 01, Colombo (LNW): Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has initiated plans to commemorate the celebrated tusker Kawantissa through the construction of a life-sized statue in Ambanpola, close to the Siyambalangamuwa Tank Reservation.
The proposed monument will be established on the grounds of Kahambiliyawetiyawatta, an estate formerly belonging to the late President R. Premadasa. The location is particularly significant as it lies near the natural habitat of the Kahalla-Pallekele elephant herd, of which Kawantissa is believed to have been the leader.
Beyond honouring the animal, the project is expected to serve a broader environmental purpose. Plans include the establishment of a dedicated research centre and library at the premises, providing facilities for studying elephant behaviour, addressing the growing challenge of human-elephant conflict and promoting the protection of Sri Lanka’s wild elephant population.
The initiative is being spearheaded by the Kawantissa Tusker Protection Task Force, chaired by Premadasa, who also holds the position of Co-Chairman of the Parliamentary Caucus on Climate Change.
In announcing the project through a Facebook post, Premadasa called on environmentalists, wildlife enthusiasts and members of the public to contribute to the undertaking and support efforts to preserve Kawantissa’s legacy.
The proposed development is intended not only to celebrate one of Sri Lanka’s notable wild elephants but also to draw greater public attention to the importance of safeguarding elephant habitats and ensuring the long-term survival of the country’s magnificent tuskers.
