Elephant riders in Sri Lanka are now strictly forbidden to "ride" while intoxicated. This order was issued by the State Minister of Wildlife Protection Wimalaweera Dissanayaka after several sad incidents caused by drunken "elephant riders" and repeated persistent appeals from environmental activists.
In addition, a wide range of new rules for keeping thick-skinned giants are being introduced. In particular, elephants under the age of two are prohibited from being forced to work and must be kept with their mothers. Adult elephants used in the logging, tourism, and ritual processions are required to work no more than four hours a day, while night work is prohibited. No more than four tourists can ride one animal at a time, and they must sit in a soft saddle. In addition, according to the notice, elephants are not allowed to participate in films, with the exception of government productions under strict veterinary supervision.
Separately, it is noted that elephants are entitled to daily bathing for at least two and a half hours. They are also required to undergo a mandatory medical check-up every six months and have a biometric ID with photo and DNA information. Violators of the rules can be sentenced to three years in prison.
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