Special trains announced for New Year travel

Colombo, April 9 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka Railways Department (SLRD) has announced the operation of several special trains to facilitate passenger travel during the upcoming Sinhala and Tamil New Year period.

According to the Railway Department, the additional services will operate on selected dates between April 10 and 19, 2026, enabling commuters to travel conveniently between Colombo and outstation destinations.

Special trains will operate between Colombo Fort and Anuradhapura, as well as between Kankesanthurai and Anuradhapura, with departures scheduled in the morning. Return services from Anuradhapura to Colombo Fort and Kankesanthurai will also run during the same period.

Several special trains have also been scheduled between Maradana and Matara, and between Maradana and Beliatta, on specific dates including April 10, 11, 12, 15, and 18. Additional return services from Matara and Beliatta to Maradana will also be in operation.

Meanwhile, the Rajarata Rejina train, which previously operated between Beliatta and Mahawa, will be extended to Anuradhapura with daily services from April 9, 2026.

In addition, the Mahawa office train from Colombo Fort will be extended to Anuradhapura on April 10, 11, and 12, with corresponding return services.

The department said that some of these trains will include first-class reserved seating compartments to enhance passenger comfort.

Passengers can obtain further details on train schedules by visiting the official Sri Lanka Railways website.

The Railway Department has requested the media to inform the public about the special train operations arranged for the festive season.