A Railway Department report has revealed a critical shortfall in operational train engines, with only 50 engines currently in service out of a fleet of 98.

The report notes that at least 74 engines are required to sustain normal train operations and further highlights that in 2024, the Department had 53 engines available for operation, underscoring the decline in capacity.

Power sets, which are mainly used for office trains, are also in short supply. Out of a fleet of 242 power sets, only 118 are presently operational, while 193 are needed to maintain services. In 2024, the fleet contained 258 power sets, with 148 in operation at the time.

Railway trade unions say the shortages have led to daily cancellations of train journeys and an increase in delays caused by defects in engines and power sets. They accuse the General Manager of Railways of failing to respond adequately to repeated warnings about the situation.

As a result, 27 railway trade unions have announced plans to launch a strike on September 17. The Sri Lanka Unprotected Railway Gatekeepers’ Union has also pledged support, with its Secretary Anil Kumara Navarathna stating that members had repeatedly sought discussions on their grievances but were denied opportunities.

In an effort to avert the strike, a meeting between union representatives and the Secretary of the Ministry of Transport is scheduled to take place this afternoon (14) at the Ministry. (Newswire)

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