Sri Lanka to electrify 3 railway corridors

COLOMBO, June 25 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka's Cabinet has approved a proposal to electrify three high-density railway corridors as part of a long-term plan to modernize the country's rail network and reduce dependence on diesel-powered operations, Cabinet Spokesperson Nalinda Jayatissa said Wednesday.

The selected routes are the main line from Maradana to Ragama, the Kelani Valley line from Maradana to Makumbura, and the coastal line from Maradana to Panadura, Jayatissa said.

The project will also upgrade railway station infrastructure at Gampaha, Veyangoda, Mirigama and Polgahawela.

The minister said most railway operations in Sri Lanka currently depend on diesel, while many railway lines, signaling systems and related facilities need upgrading to improve efficiency and service reliability.

The government said it aims to build a modern and sustainable transport system through new railway lines, double tracking, better signaling and the electrification of corridors with high passenger density.

The electrification plan is expected to increase transport capacity, reduce travel times and support environmentally friendly public transport.

The government expects to implement the project with the support of international development institutions.