A new electric railway project covering Colombo and its suburbs is expected to begin next year, with preliminary planning already completed, Deputy Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government Ruwan Senarath said.
The proposed railway is planned to begin from Maradana and is intended to provide commuters with a faster, more efficient and modern public transport service.
Electric Railway to Connect with Ruhunu Kumari
The Deputy Minister said the proposed electric railway would improve connectivity for passengers travelling to Colombo from the Southern Province.
Under the planned system, passengers travelling from Matara on the Ruhunu Kumari train would be able to get off at Panadura and continue their journey to Colombo by electric train.
Senarath said preparations for the project were underway and that construction was expected to begin next year.
Metro Bus Services Already Operating
The Deputy Minister also highlighted the introduction of Metro bus services in Colombo and surrounding urban areas, saying the services were providing improved facilities for passengers.
He stressed the need to develop modern public transport infrastructure to meet the needs of the country’s population.
Delayed Highway Projects Resume
Senarath said several previously delayed transport and highway projects had also been restarted.
He specifically referred to the Central Expressway, saying construction on the remaining section had resumed after years of delays.
He added that several projects could be completed this year as construction activities accelerate.
Rs. 112 Billion Kurunegala–Galagedara Expressway
The Deputy Minister further said work had commenced on the Kurunegala–Galagedara Expressway, with an estimated investment of Rs. 112 billion.
Responding to criticism that the Government was not undertaking sufficient development work, he pointed to the resumed highway and public transport projects as evidence of ongoing infrastructure development.
The proposed Colombo electric railway, together with the Metro bus and expressway projects, forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to improve public transport and road connectivity across the country.
