Despite the many road signs warning drivers to heed the passing wildlife, another elephant has died after being struck by a bus on the Gerik-Jeli Highway.
The tour bus struck the elephant at Kilometer 59, 130km from Ipoh.
Pictures of the elephant, and the bus’ cracked windscreen were shared widely on social media, sparking ire among animal lovers and wildlife conservationists. Many were angered that the bus driver could be so careless as to not see the beautiful animal.
Police say that the 62-year-old driver was driving downslope, when the elephant suddenly came out of the jungle. He insisted that he could not break in time.
Reports from the scene according to The Star state that the elephant fell over upon impact with the bus, later getting up and walking to the left side of the highway and sitting down. He died shortly thereafter.
Investigating officers report that the pachyderm had lacerations to its head and back. None of the bus passengers, nor the driver were injured.
The area is actually a wildlife habitat, meaning that animals roam the area, regardless of passing vehicles. All the more important to be alert, and drive with caution.
Earlier this year, a baby elephant was involved in a hit and run accident along the same stretch of road, and left to die. The motorist eventually turned themselves it.
