Rs. 80 Billion Allocated for Sri Lanka’s Electric Railway Project

Sri Lanka has allocated Rs. 80 billion for a major project to introduce electric trains as part of efforts to modernise the country’s railway network.

According to Railway General Manager Ravindra Padmapriya, speaking to News First’s Dawase Vimasuma, plans have been finalised to develop an electric railway system aimed at strengthening suburban public transport, with construction expected to begin next year.

The initial phase will focus on key commuter routes connecting Colombo (Maradana) with major suburbs including Ragama, Panadura and Malawatta, along with other regional extensions.

The project is expected to involve extensive infrastructure development, with an estimated investment of Rs. 80 billion.

The transition to electric trains is ultimately aimed at creating a faster, more efficient and environmentally friendly public transport network for Sri Lanka’s daily commuters.