Train Chaos: 38 Cancellations in One Day Spark Public Outrage

COLOMBO (News 1st); Thousands of commuters across Sri Lanka continue to face severe disruptions due to ongoing train delays and cancellations, with mounting frustration over the lack of reliable rail services.

Today (27), both the Coastal Line and Kelani Valley Line experienced significant delays.

The Railway Control Room confirmed that all trains on the Coastal Line may be delayed due to a mechanical failure on the No. 311 night mail train traveling from Galle to Maradana, which broke down near Ambalangoda.

As a result, passengers at Panadura and Wadduwa railway stations were left stranded for hours.

Meanwhile, on the Kelani Valley Line, a derailment that occurred last night in the Waga area led to the cancellation of three trains.

Sri Lanka Railways stated that other trains on the route are operating with delays, while track restoration work is currently underway.

Passengers have voiced growing concerns over the frequent disruptions, which have persisted for several days. Many expressed frustration over the lack of communication and contingency planning.

Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways, Dr. Prasanna Gunasena, has raised serious concerns over the growing number of train cancellations across Sri Lanka, attributing the disruptions to unauthorized actions by a small group of railway drivers.

Speaking at a media briefing, Dr. Gunasena revealed that the number of train cancellations in the past week has significantly exceeded the daily average, creating a crisis within the Department of Railways.

“Within just one week, the number of cancelled trains has gone far beyond the usual daily figures. On Sunday evening alone, 38 trains were cancelled. Of those, 35 were due to drivers not reporting to work,” he stated.

He further noted that the trend continued into Monday morning, with an additional 15 train services cancelled due to the same issue.

“When we look at both incidents together—35 cancellations the previous evening and 15 last morning—it’s clear we’re facing a serious situation. This is not an official trade union action. It’s the result of unauthorized behavior by a small group of drivers,” Dr. Gunasena emphasized.

The Deputy Minister also hinted at possible political interference behind the disruptions and confirmed that discussions had been held with the Minister and relevant officials.

“There is definitely political influence behind this. We’ve spoken with the Minister and the relevant authorities. If necessary, we are prepared to halt the entire train service for a week or two to resolve this issue. We cannot allow these disruptions to continue due to minor, isolated actions.”

The Ministry is expected to take decisive steps to restore normalcy and ensure uninterrupted rail services for the public.