In a major initiative aimed at strengthening transport infrastructure in the Northern Province, the Ministry of Transport and the Department of Railways have announced plans to extend the Kankesanthurai (KKS) railway line to a new industrial estate currently under development in the area.
The proposed extension is expected to significantly enhance both passenger mobility and freight services, contributing to broader economic development in the region.
The Kankesanthurai Railway Station—restored and reopened to the public ten years ago after suffering extensive damage during the three-decade civil conflict—has played a pivotal role in reconnecting the Northern Province with the rest of the country. However, further infrastructure development is now underway to meet growing demand.
Transport Minister Bimal Ratnayake, who toured the KKS station on June 10, announced plans to upgrade its facilities, especially in terms of cargo handling and storage.
“While passenger connectivity has improved, we still lack adequate infrastructure to manage goods efficiently. We have now commenced goods transportation activities, but the absence of proper receiving and storage facilities is a challenge we must address immediately,” the Minister stated.
He emphasized the importance of integrating railway and bus services in the area, especially with the completion of road infrastructure linking to the Jaffna International Airport.
“A coordinated transport system is vital to provide efficient services to both the public and the business community,” he added.
Looking ahead, the railway extension is also expected to facilitate fuel transportation and provide direct access for goods movement to the port, further enhancing the region’s logistics capacity.
Minister Ratnayake was joined on the inspection tour by General Manager of Railways Dhammika Jayasundara, Northern Provincial Council member Ramalingam Chandrasekaran, and other senior officials.
To mark the occasion, a tree was planted at the station premises, and a new library was declared open—highlighting the government’s dual focus on infrastructure development and community empowerment.
The proposed projects are expected to bring renewed economic opportunities and improved connectivity to the people of Kankesanthurai and the wider Northern Province.
