The incident occurred on the grounds of the historic Na Uyana Aranya, a revered forest monastery. The seven deceased monks identified are: Ven. Malwanegama Samiddhi, Ven. Nawalapitiya Uttarananda, Ven. Nugegoda Vipassi, Ven. Udawalawe Santhasumana (all from Sri Lanka), Ven. Dhammagavesi (India), Ven. Dharmaransi (Romania) and Ven. Dharmarakkhita (Russia).

The monks were traveling to their secluded meditation kutis (huts) atop the mountain within the vast monastery complex when the supporting wire of the rail car failed. Of the thirteen monastics in the cabin, seven succumbed to their injuries. Four remain in critical condition, while two sustained minor injuries and were able to escape.

Authorities from the Pansiyagama Police are investigating the cause of the failure. Local residents were among the first to reach the remote and difficult site, performing initial rescue efforts under challenging circumstances.

Na Uyana Monastery, established in the 3rd century BCE, is one of the country's most ancient and respected forest monastic traditions. Home to over 200 monks, it is a center for strict meditation and Dhamma practice, often welcoming lay visitors for spiritual retreats.

The news has sent waves of sorrow through the Buddhist community. Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister, Vijitha Herath, expressed his profound shock and offered condolences to the affected families and the monastic community.

This sudden event is a sobering reminder of the impermanent nature of all conditioned things (anicca). As the community comes together in support, prayers and metta (loving-kindness) are being offered for the deceased monastics, a swift recovery for the injured, and strength for all those touched by this profound loss.

May the merits of their dedicated practice support them on their continued journey.