Sun Siyam Pasikudah launches CarePhant project to foster baby elephant named Kalo

Sun Siyam Pasikudah last week announced the launch of the CarePhant project, an initiative to foster the well-being of a young elephant named Kalo at the Elephant Transit Home (ETH) in Udawalawe.

The CarePhant project, supported by Sun Siyam Pasikudah, and in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), embodies a profound commitment to biodiversity conservation and responsible tourism practices. By partnering with the Elephant Transit Home (ETH), Sun Siyam Pasikudah provides essential care for Kalo, who was rescued from Galenbidunuwewa in the Anuradhapura after falling into an abandoned well near a forest area.

At approximately eight months old, he was subsequently brought to the Elephant Transit Home on March 23, 2024, where he is receiving expert care under the supervision of wildlife veterinarians from the DWC. Sun Siyam Pasikudah made a steadfast commitment to Kalo’s care, vowing continuous support until his eventual release back into the wild. This initiative involves a monthly contribution of LKR 65,000.00 (approximately USD 200) from the Sun Siyam Care Fund.

“We are delighted to embark on the CarePhant project and become stewards of Kalo’s well-being,” said Arshed Refai, General Manager of Sun Siyam Pasikudah. “This initiative underscores our dedication to wildlife conservation and our responsibility to safeguard Sri Lanka’s natural heritage.”

“The CarePhant project aligns with our Sustainable Development Goal 15 – Life on Land, emphasizing Sun Siyam Pasikudah’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and supporting the Department of Wildlife Conservation’s efforts,” stated Upul Kumara, Sustainability Project Manager for Sun Siyam Resorts. “Through this initiative, we aim to educate our guests and the wider community about the significance of wildlife conservation and the role each of us can play in protecting our natural heritage.”