'Podi Menike' train reaches Peradeniya after Cyclone Ditwah disruption

Train services on the Upcountry Railway Line resumed today (02), with services operating from Colombo Fort to Peradeniya and Gampola, following an approximately 10-month suspension caused by the impact of Cyclone Ditwah.

Following Cyclone Ditwah, train services on the Upcountry Line between Rambukkana, Kandy and Badulla had been completely suspended.

Accordingly, the Railway Department took steps to extend train services to Peradeniya and Gampola from today, whereas services had operated only up to Rambukkana Railway Station until yesterday.

The ‘Podi Menike’ train departed from Colombo Fort at 5:55 a.m. today. However, passengers were not permitted to travel on the train, as it was operating as a trial service.

Minister of Transport Bimal Rathnayake, along with officials from the Railway Department and the Ministry of Transport, travelled on the train from Rambukkana Railway Station.

Engineers and workers who contributed to the restoration of the railway line also travelled on the trial train.

A special ceremony was held at Peradeniya Railway Station to welcome the train upon its arrival.

The ‘Podi Menike’ train is scheduled to continue its journey from Peradeniya to Gampola Railway Station.