By The Pulseline News Desk
Work on a proposed electric train network covering Colombo and its suburbs is expected to begin next year, with the initial planning stage already completed, Deputy Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government Ruwan Senarath said.
Speaking at a public rally in Hambantota, Senarath has said the project would introduce a more modern and efficient rail transport option for commuters travelling in and around Colombo.
According to the Deputy Minister, the proposed electric train service will commence from Maradana, with the network designed to improve connectivity between Colombo and suburban areas.
The project is also expected to provide greater flexibility for passengers travelling to Colombo from the Southern Province.
Senarath has said passengers travelling on the Ruhunu Kumari train from Beliatta would be able to disembark at Panadura and continue their journey towards Colombo using the new electric train service.
The proposed arrangement would allow commuters to connect between the existing railway network and the new electric service, potentially reducing the pressure on road-based transport along the busy Colombo–Southern corridor.
The Deputy Minister has said the electric train project formed part of broader efforts to modernise Sri Lanka’s public transport infrastructure and provide commuters with faster and more convenient alternatives.
He has also pointed to several ongoing and planned developments in the transport and highway sectors, highlighting the Government’s focus on improving public transport connectivity.
Among the measures already introduced, Metro buses are being operated in Colombo and surrounding areas with the aim of improving public transport services while strengthening the state transport network.
The planned electric railway is expected to add another component to these efforts, as authorities seek to modernise the country’s transport system and respond to growing commuter demand in the Colombo metropolitan area.
With initial planning reportedly completed, attention will now turn to the commencement of work next year and the details of the proposed network, including its routes, infrastructure and integration with existing rail services.
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