Auspicious start for luxury rail services

Friday, 7 October 2011 02:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Two luxury services between Colombo and Kandy were officially flagged off yesterday bringing a refreshing change to rail transportation.

First to takeoff was Expo Rail operated by Expolanka Holdings followed by Blue Line Company’s Rajadhani Express. Transport Minister Kumar Welgama and Ministry Secretary Dhammika Perera officiated at the launch.

The private sector-serviced and marketed luxury coaches attached to the trains operated by Sri Lanka Railway are fully air-conditioned, carpeted, have first class toilets facilities, free Wi-Fi, side racks to store passengers luggage, on board snacks, tea/coffee and steward service.

Both operators are charging Rs. 850 per person one-way.

Considered a boon for middle and upper middle-income and tourists wishing to use the railway to travel, via the luxury services the Sri Lanka Railway will generate revenue by charging the operators a standard first class fare per seat.

The new generated income will be used for the development of railway services.

Minister of Transport Kumar Welgama (top) inspects the Rajadhani Express coach prior to its inauguration whilst (below) Ministry Secretary Dhammika Perera prepares to cut the ribbon to flag off maiden service of Expo Rail coach yesterday at the Colombo Fort Railway station – Pix by Upul Abayasekara