Seven Buddhist monks died, including one Indian national, due to a tragic cable car accident at a forest monastery in northwestern Sri Lanka. The incident occurred on Wednesday night at the Na Uyana Aranya Senasanaya, about 125 kilometers from Colombo, where practitioners visit for meditation retreats.
According to police reports, the cable-operated rail cart overturned, leading to this catastrophic incident. Among the deceased monks are an Indian, a Russian, and a Romanian national. The monastery, renowned for its serene environment and spiritual retreats, serves as an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide.
Authorities confirmed that six others sustained injuries during the accident. Of these, four individuals are reportedly in critical condition, receiving urgent medical attention at a nearby hospital. The local community mourns the loss of life, with tributes pouring in for the monks who dedicated their lives to spiritual practice.
This tragic event raises concerns regarding the safety of transportation methods used in remote pilgrimage sites. The Na Uyana monastery, known for its exceptional meditation programs, attracts visitors globally, making safety measures more crucial than ever. Experts stress that such tragic accidents highlight the need for improved safety protocols at these religious retreats.
Officials continue their investigation to uncover the cause of the incident. Witness accounts indicate that the cable car experienced issues prior to its overturning. This has prompted calls from monks and community leaders for increased oversight of the monastery’s facilities.
As Sri Lanka has a rich Buddhist heritage, incidents like this resonate deeply within the community. The loss of seven monks in a single mishap emphasizes the fragility of life, sparking a wave of grief among residents in the region and the larger Buddhist community.
