The government is moving ahead with plans to acquire new trains and locomotives while upgrading sections of Sri Lanka’s railway network, Deputy Minister of Transport Dr. Prasanna Gunasena told Parliament.
Gunasena said there are currently no plans to extend the overall length of the railway network, but work is underway to develop existing lines, including plans to upgrade the Polgahawela–Kurunegala section.
He said procurement has already commenced for five new power sets, with the tender process currently at the evaluation stage.
The Deputy Minister said the government expects to award the contract within 2026.
He added that funds are expected to be allocated through the 2027 Budget to procure another five train sets.
Plans are also underway to purchase a number of bidirectional trains capable of operating shorter-distance services, he said.
Meanwhile, the government has initiated a project to assemble three light train sets locally in Sri Lanka.
Gunasena said bids have already been called for the project and the submissions are currently being evaluated.
He said the government expects to complete the procurement process within the next three months and before the end of 2026.
The initiatives form part of efforts to increase Sri Lanka Railways’ available fleet and improve railway services, the Deputy Minister said. (Newswire)
