Wednesday Jun 24, 2026
Wednesday Jun 24, 2026
Wednesday, 24 June 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Cabinet on Monday approved a proposal to proceed with the electrification of key railway corridors as part of the Government’s broader strategy to modernise Sri Lanka’s rail transport network.
Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said the decision forms part of ongoing efforts to establish a modern and sustainable railway transport system through infrastructure upgrades and service improvements.
Sri Lanka’s railway operations are currently dominated by diesel-powered services, while many railway lines, signalling systems and related infrastructure require upgrading to improve efficiency and passenger services.
The Government has already identified several railway development priorities, including the construction of new railway lines, double-tracking projects, signalling upgrades and the electrification of high-density passenger corridors.
Accordingly, Cabinet approved a proposal submitted by Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development Bimal Rathnayake to take the necessary steps to implement railway electrification on selected routes.
The approved projects include the electrification of the Main Line from Maradana to Ragama, together with the development of railway station buildings at Gampaha, Veyangoda, Mirigama and Polgahawela.
Cabinet also approved plans to electrify the Kelani Valley Line from Maradana to Makumbura and the Coastal Line from Maradana to Panadura.
The Government said the electrification program is intended to increase transport capacity, reduce travel times and support the development of an environmentally sustainable public transport system.
The projects are expected to be implemented with the support of international development institutions as part of Sri Lanka’s long-term transport strategy.
