Deputy Minister inspects upcountry railway restoration sites amid Ditwah recovery

May 6, 2026 at 11:47 AM

Deputy Minister of Transport Prasanna Gunasena carried out an observation visit to review the progress of the upcountry railway line restoration following severe damage caused by Cyclone Ditwah. 

The Ministry of Transport said the National Building Research Organization (NBRO) is spearheading engineering investigations and design work to restore the upcountry railway line.

According to the Ministry, the disaster caused 97 incidents along the Maradana–Peradeniya main line, including landslides, soil washouts, rock falls, and damage to bridges and culverts.

Of these, 92 sites have already been restored through the Railway Department’s efforts, while work continues at five more locations between Rambukkana and Kadugannawa.

The ministry further said that the NBRO is conducting specialized engineering studies to address the complexities of the restoration process, ensuring long‑term stability and safety of the railway infrastructure.

To support the work, a service train has been operating between Rambukkana and Kadigamuwa since May 3, transporting raw materials required for repairs.

The Ministry added that restoration efforts are progressing steadily. (Newswire)