A dangerous signal system failure on Sri Lanka’s coastal railway line nearly led to a collision between two trains traveling in the same direction on the same track between Panadura and Moratuwa, earlier today.

A slow service train plying from Panadura to Colombo Fort, was moving forward after receiving a green signal.

However, another train was also operating on the same track and direction in the same section.

Chandana Wiyanduwa of the Locomotive Operating Engineers Union said the incident was caused by a serious fault in the coastal line’s colour light signalling system.

“It was the observation and skill of the engine driver which avoided a massive accident,” he said.

The union has formally notified railway authorities, urging an immediate resolution to the issue.

The union warned that if the fault is not promptly rectified, they may be compelled to halt train operations on the coastal line to ensure passenger safety. “This is a grave and dangerous situation, if the signalling system cannot be trusted. It is a question of people’s lives,” he said.

Wiyanduwa said that railway authorities had assured the system will be tested and reviewed, and added that operators will allow the management reasonable time for the issue to be rectified. (Newswire)

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