Deputy Minister of Transport Prasanna Gunasena has expressed serious concerns over a large-scale racket involving e-tickets for train services to Ella, after tickets sold out within 42 seconds of being made available online.
Speaking at the Kandy District Coordination Committee meeting yesterday, the Deputy Minister revealed that a complaint has been filed with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) regarding the issue.
He disclosed instances where groups purchase all tickets immediately and later resell them to foreigners at exorbitant prices, with tickets originally priced at Rs. 2,000 being sold for as much as Rs. 16,000.
The Deputy Minister stated that the fraudulent resale of train tickets is centered around the Colombo Fort, Kandy, and Ella railway stations, with reports indicating the involvement of three-wheeler operators near these premises.
He noted that e-tickets for train journeys are released online one month in advance, yet they are repeatedly sold out within approximately 42 seconds. This suggests involvement by individuals or groups with advanced computer expertise.
Despite a formal complaint to the CID, the report on the investigation has yet to be received. The Deputy Minister emphasized the urgent need for measures to combat this fraud and protect passengers from exploitation.
Police officials have commented that while victims of this racket frequently complain, they are often reluctant to assist in taking legal action against the perpetrators.
