Seven Buddhist Monks tragically lost their lives after a cable car overturned at a mountain monastery in Sri Lanka. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, September 24th, also left six other monks seriously injured. The monastery, known as Na Uyana Monastery, is located in central Sri Lanka and spans over 5,000 acres of forest on a series of hills, being home to approximately 150 Buddhist monks.
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According to reports from local media outlet Dinamina and CNN, 13 monks were travelling in the cable car when an iron cable broke, causing the vehicle to overturn. Among the victims were three foreign nationals from India, Russia, and Romania. The six injured monks are currently receiving treatment at the Kurunegala Teaching Hospital, with two of them in critical condition.
Witnesses described a harrowing scene, with some monks falling into the jungle and sustaining fatal injuries upon impact. Asanka Siriwardena, a witness to the tragic accident, expressed the difficulties in locating the affected monks and the devastation caused by the incident. The cable car was completely destroyed, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath of Sri Lanka conveyed his shock and condolences over the loss of the venerable monks, including international members of the Sangha, in the tragic accident at Na Uyana Aranya Senasanaya. The Buddhist community worldwide mourns this heartbreaking loss, and prayers are offered for the recovery of the injured monks.
The cable car, which had a capacity for around six people, suffered a catastrophic failure leading to the fatal accident. Visual evidence of the aftermath showed a snapped cable and blood near the cable car’s structure, highlighting the severity of the incident. The monastery, known for its serene and spiritual atmosphere, was engulfed in sorrow and mourning following the tragedy.
Efforts are underway to investigate the root cause of the cable car malfunction and to prevent such accidents from occurring in the future. The safety of visitors and residents at the monastery is of paramount importance, and measures will be taken to enhance security and prevent similar incidents.
The loss of these seven Buddhist monks has sent shockwaves through the community, both locally and internationally. The tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety precautions in all endeavours. The monks will be remembered for their dedication to their spiritual practice and the contribution they made to the monastery and the broader Buddhist community.
As investigations continue and the injured monks receive medical care, the community comes together to mourn the loss and support one another during this challenging time. The impact of this tragedy will be felt deeply, but the resilience and unity of the community will provide strength and solace in the face of adversity.