Upcountry railway restoration on track for completion by June

Colombo, March 27 (Daily Mirror) - The restoration of the Colombo-Badulla-Colombo upcountry railway line, severely damaged by the recent Ditwah Cyclone, is progressing rapidly with the involvement of internationally recognized and experienced engineering companies.

The project, implemented under the “Rebuilding Sri Lanka” national programme, aims to restore critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and railway lines, that were devastated during the disaster.

Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake conducted a field inspection on the 25th near Elgin Falls, between Nanuoya and Ambewela, to review the final phase of reconstruction on the most affected section of the upcountry railway line.

Currently, trains on the line are operating only up to Rambukkana, while the remaining section undergoes reconstruction under the approved plan of the National Building Research Institute. Soil conservation measures are being applied to ensure long-term stability, and the project—led by internationally experienced engineering firms—is expected to be completed by the end of June 2026.

The Nanuoya-Ambewela stretch had suffered extensive damage at 14 locations due to landslides, subsidence, and erosion. Of these, 13 locations have already been fully restored, with reconstruction continuing at Elgin Falls.

During the inspection, Minister Rathnayake met with officers and workers from the Railway Technical Services Division, acknowledging their commitment over the past four months despite challenging conditions. He assured full government support to expedite restoration and improve facilities for workers.

The Minister also highlighted the railway’s vital role in the local economy and tourism sector, noting that it serves as the primary transportation link for communities in the upcountry region. He emphasized that all necessary steps would be taken to quickly resolve the difficulties faced by the general public until full restoration is achieved.