Sri Lanka, Oct. 19 -- President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has appointed an expert committee to investigate the death of tusker Kavanthissa in the Siyambalangamuwa area of Galgamuwa on or around October 16 and recommend a national elephant conservation programme.

The committee has been tasked with examining the circumstances surrounding the elephant's death, including its immediate and underlying causes, and determining whether any lapses or negligence occurred during its treatment, according to the President's Media Division (PMD).

Former Ministry Secretary A. H. Sarath Wijesinghe will chair the committee, which comprises Professor T. Saminda Fernando, Professor A. G. Anil Pushpakumara, Professor U. K. Kalinga Padmalal, Dr Jagath Gunawa...