Coastal Line Services to Resume Within Two Days After ‘Sagarika’ Train Derailment

The General Manager of Railways, Ravindra Pathmapriya, has stated that re-railing operations for the derailed ‘Sagarika’ train are currently underway, with train services on the Coastal Line expected to be restored within two days.

He made these remarks while addressing the media, noting that the Minister has instructed officials to take all necessary steps to minimise inconvenience to passengers.

Commenting further, he said, “The damaged train is a significant loss for us, especially as our fleet is already limited. We have incurred this loss and hope to rectify the situation promptly. However, we will need to deploy an alternative train in its place, and discussions in this regard are currently underway.”

The ‘Sagarika’ train, which was operating from Beliatta to Maradana, derailed this morning (24) near the Wadduwa Railway Station, causing severe damage to one of the tracks on the double-line section.

The Department of Railways has arranged for train services to operate along the affected Coastal Line up to Panadura Railway Station.

Passengers are being transported between Panadura and South Kalutara Railway Station using Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) buses. From South Kalutara, train services continue towards Matara and Beliatta.

The Railway Department also stated that efforts are underway to clear the obstruction and restore operations on at least one track before the end of the day.

Accordingly, the Department of Railways has released a revised train timetable.