Colombo bound Sagarika Express held up due to absence of gateman

By Krishan Jayaruk   

Colombo bound Sagarika Express from Beliatta was held up last morning at Weherahena level crossing due to the absence of the  gateman to close the gate for traffic. However, the gateman had informed  Matara Railway Station over the phone that his motorcycle ground to a  halt on the way due to lack of fuel.   

Meanwhile, the driver had managed to stop the train when he noticed that the gate was not closed and the gateman was absent.

   
His assistant had got off the engine and signalled the vehicles on the crossroad to halt until the train passed.  Station Master, Matara Railway station M.A Priyantha said  the train was held up for about five minutes and that an inquiry into the  absence of the gatemen would be held.