Seven Buddhist monks, including an Indian national, tragically lost their lives in a cable car accident at a monastery in Sri Lanka. The incident occurred on Wednesday night, December 6, 2023, at Na Uyana Aranya Senasanaya, a well-known Buddhist site in Nikaweratiya, located approximately 125 kilometers from Colombo.
This renowned monastery is famous for its meditation retreats, attracting practitioners from various countries. The accident reportedly involved a cable-operated rail cart that overturned while transporting monks, leading to this devastating loss of life.
Among the deceased, authorities confirmed the presence of an Indian, a Russian, and a Romanian monk, highlighting the international character of the monastery’s community. Their tragic deaths resonate deeply with the Buddhist community globally, as many travelers visit Sri Lanka specifically for its spiritual offerings.
The Royal Sri Lanka Police reported that six additional monks sustained injuries during the incident, with four in critical condition as of Thursday morning. Rescue operations commenced immediately, but the aftermath of the accident has raised serious concerns about safety measures in place at the monastery.
Officials from the monastery expressed their grief over the incident. They stated, “This is a profound tragedy for our community, and we are working to support the families affected.” The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the cable cart’s malfunction to prevent similar accidents in the future.
This incident underscores the need for improved safety standards at religious and tourist sites in Sri Lanka, particularly those that rely on potentially hazardous transport systems. Authorities may implement stricter regulations to ensure the safety of practitioners and visitors alike at such sacred locations.
As inquiries into this tragic event continue, local communities and Buddhist practitioners are coming together to honor the memory of those who lost their lives. Vigils and prayers are planned in both Sri Lanka and abroad, emphasizing the global connection of the Buddhist faith.
The monastery has expressed its intention to assist the injured monks’ families during this difficult time. Many hope that this incident will lead to increased vigilance regarding safety protocols to safeguard against future tragedies.
