Rail transport in Sri Lanka
Encyclopedia
Rail Transport in Sri Lanka consists of a heavy-rail intercity network
connecting major population centres and commuter rail serving Colombo commuter traffic. State-run Sri Lanka Railways
, originally known as Ceylon Government Railways, is the nation's railway owner and primary operator. The railways were conceived in the 1850s as an instrument to develop and unify Sri Lanka
. Service began in 1864, with the construction of the Main Line from Colombo
to Ambepussa
, 54 kilometers to the east.
The railway now moves 300,000 passengers daily on 324 trains between 320 stations across the country. At a peak of 1900 metres (6,233.6 ft), Sri Lanka has the highest broad gauge
railway in the world.
During the first half of the twentieth century, a tram system operated on the streets of Colombo, carrying commuters within the city.
The railway moves 300,000 passengers daily on 324 trains between 320 stations across the country. Despite heavy over-crowding on the railways, its share of the passenger market is only 7 percent, while it only handles 2 percent of the freight market.
The railway is currently undergoing modernisation, under the government's 10-year Railway Development Strategy. New train sets are being imported and track upgraded. In an effort to raise rail transport's appeal to the public, premium services were launched through the private sector on certain trains.
The network includes major hubs at Colombo Fort
and Maradana
.
, connecting major cities. Trains are generally provided in a three-class layout, offering varying degrees of comfort. A number of major trains were named, names that have become cultural icons.
Expolanka
's ExpoRail, and Blue Line Company's Rajadhani Express operate premium services on certain trains. While ExpoRail and Rajadhani do not yet operate their own trains, they provide premium services in dedicated carraiges on Sri Lanka Railways-operated trains.
In 2011, the railways revived the rail link to the Port of Colombo, enabling bulk movement of cargo, while causing less pollution. A train can generally carry around 20-24 twenty-foot equivalent container units, greatly improving the efficiency of freight transport and making cargo easier to track.
Colombo's commuter rail network consists of 100 kilometres of track from Panadura to Polgahawela, running via Fort Station
and Maradana Station. The route is multiple tracked to handle the intensive service during peak times.
In areas without significant demand for regular commuter trains, such as in the Eastern province
, railbus
connects towns and cities. Railbus between Batticaloa and Trincomalee allows passengers to travel between the two cities with fewer delays.
The tram system operated with 42" gauge track, that was sunk into the road. The system had two tram models in its rolling stock.
After an infamous tram car strike, the Colombo Municipal Council
took over operations. Subsequently, the tram car system was phased out and the system was discontinued by 1960.
system was proposed, in the 2010s, to serve commuters in Colombo as a clean, environmentally friendly transit option. It would reduce the load on the over-crowded commuter rail system and eleviate congestion on major roads. A consortium of three companies is conducting feasibility studies on this project.
operates nearly all rail services in Sri Lanka. A state-owned enterprise, Sri Lanka Railways operates both intercity services and commuter rail. It also operates freight transport.
Private operators provide a few services, using Sri Lanka Railways' equipment and infrastructure. The Viceroy Special
, a heritage train run using a preserved steam locomotive, is operated by J.F. Tours & Travels (Ceylon) Ltd. Airport & Aviation Services Limited operates the Airport Express, between Colombo Secretariat Station and Bandaranaike International Airport
.
On 6th October 2011, Expolanka
launched premium services on Sri Lankan trains, under the brand ExpoRail. Within the same day, Blue Line Company launched a competing service, the Rajadhani Express. ExpoRail and Rajadhani do not yet operate their own trains, but run a premium section on trains operated by Sri Lanka Railways.
The tram system in Colombo was operated by the Colombo Electric Tram Car and Lighting Company Ltd, before being taken over by the Municipal Council and shut down.
. As of July 2011, none of the network is electrified and all regular services run on diesel power. Some lines were narrow gauge lines, at 2 ft 6 in (762 mm), before being converted to broad gauge.
Trams that used to serve on the streets of Colombo have all been scrapped, as there was no incentive at the time for preservation.
Much of the network uses a lock-and-block signaling system. But in the mid-twentieth century, the busiest sectors, around Colombo, were upgraded to electronic signalling connected to a CTC control panel
at Maradana Railway Station
.
In 2011, the railways began a project to add electronic signalling to the rail lines in the North. Track between Anuradhapura
, Kankesanturai, and Talaimannar
would be given electronic signalling with centralized traffic control, interlocking colour light system with electrically operated points, and track detection system. Level crossings would also be connected to the signalling system, thus ensuring safety at crossings.
After the 2011 Alawwa crash, SLR started to install a GPS-based train-protection system on its entire fleet. The system warns drivers of a possible collision and allows enough time for the drivers to manually bring the two trains to a halt. The fleet can also be monitored by the central control room using the system. A trial run was carried out in early November with just ten trains. The railway is now installing the system on the entire fleet.
to Ambepussa
, 54 kilometers to the east. The first train ran on 27 December 1864. The line was officially opened for traffic on 2 October 1865. The Main Line was extended in stages with service to Kandy
in 1867, to Nawalapitiya
in 1874, to Nanu-Oya in 1885, to Bandarawela
in 1894, and to Badulla
in 1924.
Other lines were completed in due course to link the country: the Matale Line in 1880, the Coast Line in 1895, the Northern Line in 1905, the Mannar Line in 1914, the Kelani Valley Line in 1919, the Puttalam Line in 1926, and the Batticaloa and Trincomalee Lines in 1928.
, Gampaha
, Veyangoda, and Polgahawela
. At Rambukkana, the Main Line begins its steep climb into the hills of the upcountry. Between Balana and Kadugannawa
, the track clings to the side of sheer cliffs, offering passengers spectacular views of Batalegala ('Bible' Rock).
The Main Line then continues its climb through the scenic tea country, connecting busy local market centers at Gampola
, Nawalapitiya
, and Hatton
before reaching Nanu-Oya. This is the connection to the former colonial resort of Nuwara Eliya
, still popular for its temperate climate, classic hotels, and British-style gardens. The Main Line continues its ascent to the summit at Pattipola, 6,226 feet above sea level, before descending past Bandarawela
to Badulla
. In the upcountry, passengers are rewarded with views of tea gardens, mountains and valleys, cascading torrents and waterfalls.
, Panadura
, and Kalutara
South, as well as popular beach resorts at Aluthgama
, Ambalangoda, and Hikkaduwa
. The line continues past Galle
, which is famous for its historic and well-preserved Dutch Fort, before terminating at Matara
.
The Coast Line is currently being extended to Kataragama
.
, extending north past Ja-Ela
, Seeduwa
, Katunayake
and Negombo
, an important regional town and tourist centre. It goes further to connect to northwestern Sri Lanka, reaching Kochikade, Luniwila
, where the National Coconut Research Center is located, Nattandiya, Madampe
, Chilaw
, and Puttalam.
The Puttalam Line also links other busy market towns and fishing villages. Passenger service ends at Noor Nagar station just north of Puttalam, beyond that the tracks are used exclusively by Holcim
cement freight trains.
extends from Colombo-Maradana and east to Avissawella
. This was originally built as a narrow gauge line and was converted to dual gauge between 1991 and 1997.
, home of the Sri Dalada Maligawa, which houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Lord Buddha
, before descending to Matale
.
, passing Kurunegala
, the capital of North Western Province
, before continuing to the historic cultural and religious center of Anuradhapura
, the island's ancient capital around the 4th century BCE and home to many sites of religious and archaeological interest. Service is now curtailed beyond Omanthai
.
, site of an ancient capital in the 11th century and home to many historic monuments. The line continues to the eastern city of Batticaloa
.
.
Sri Lanka and 
India
never materialised. However, a boat service once connected the closest railhead
s between Sri Lanka and India.
A 22-mile bridge to link the two countries had been proposed as early as 1894, by the Consultant Engineer for railways in Madras (Chennai
). The proposal was given serious consideration and a technical blueprint
and cost analysis was conducted. By 1914, the Mannar line was built to connect Talaimannar
on Mannar Island
to the Sri Lankan mainland. On the Indian side, the Indian railway network was extended to Dhanushkodi. The international bridge to link the two was not built.
The ferry service to connect the railheads at Talaimannar and Dhanushkodi lasted until the 1960s, when a cyclone destroyed the pier and rail line at Dhanushkodi. The ferry service resumed with the Indian terminus at Rameshwaram, a service that also closed, due to the Sri Lankan conflict.
In the 2000s, the rail bridge to connect the two countries was proposed again, highlighting the benefits of connecting the ports of Colombo and Trincomalee
with Chennai.
Inter-city rail
Inter-city rail services are express passenger train services that cover longer distances than commuter or regional trains.There is no precise definition of inter-city rail. Its meaning may vary from country to country...
connecting major population centres and commuter rail serving Colombo commuter traffic. State-run Sri Lanka Railways
Sri Lanka Railways
Sri Lanka Railway Department, branded "Sri Lanka Railways", is a key department of the Sri Lankan Government under the Ministry of Transport with a history that begins in 1858...
, originally known as Ceylon Government Railways, is the nation's railway owner and primary operator. The railways were conceived in the 1850s as an instrument to develop and unify Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, officially the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka is a country off the southern coast of the Indian subcontinent. Known until 1972 as Ceylon , Sri Lanka is an island surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Strait, and lies in the vicinity of India and the...
. Service began in 1864, with the construction of the Main Line from Colombo
Colombo
Colombo is the largest city of Sri Lanka. It is located on the west coast of the island and adjacent to Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, the capital of Sri Lanka. Colombo is often referred to as the capital of the country, since Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte is a satellite city of Colombo...
to Ambepussa
Ambepussa
Ambepussa is a town in the Kegalla District in Sri Lanka Also one more Ambepussa in Gampaha District.- History :The first railroad tracks in Sri Lanka led from Colombo to Ambepussa .- Geography :...
, 54 kilometers to the east.
The railway now moves 300,000 passengers daily on 324 trains between 320 stations across the country. At a peak of 1900 metres (6,233.6 ft), Sri Lanka has the highest broad gauge
Indian gauge
Indian gauge is a track gauge commonly used in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Argentina and Chile. It is also the gauge that is used on BART , in northern California.- Scotland :...
railway in the world.
During the first half of the twentieth century, a tram system operated on the streets of Colombo, carrying commuters within the city.
Trends
The Railway was initially built to transport coffee and tea from the hill country to Colombo for export. For many years, transporting such goods was the main source of income on the line. With time and population growth, however, passenger traffic increased. In the 1960s, passenger traffic overtook freight as the main source of revenue. The railway is now primarily engaged in the transport of passengers, especially commuters to and from Colombo, thereby helping to reduce road congestion.The railway moves 300,000 passengers daily on 324 trains between 320 stations across the country. Despite heavy over-crowding on the railways, its share of the passenger market is only 7 percent, while it only handles 2 percent of the freight market.
The railway is currently undergoing modernisation, under the government's 10-year Railway Development Strategy. New train sets are being imported and track upgraded. In an effort to raise rail transport's appeal to the public, premium services were launched through the private sector on certain trains.
Intercity Rail
The railway network consists of lines radiating from Colombo, which connect most major population and industrial centres. The intercity network transports both passengers and freight.The network includes major hubs at Colombo Fort
Fort Railway Station (Colombo)
Fort Railway Station is a major rail hub in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The station is served by Sri Lanka Railways, with many inter-city and commuter trains entering each day...
and Maradana
Maradana Railway Station
Maradana Railway Station is a major rail hub in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The station is served by Sri Lanka Railways, with many inter-city and commuter trains entering each day. It is the terminus of several intercity trains.- History :...
.
Intercity Passenger Trains
Most passenger services are provided by Sri Lanka RailwaysSri Lanka Railways
Sri Lanka Railway Department, branded "Sri Lanka Railways", is a key department of the Sri Lankan Government under the Ministry of Transport with a history that begins in 1858...
, connecting major cities. Trains are generally provided in a three-class layout, offering varying degrees of comfort. A number of major trains were named, names that have become cultural icons.
Expolanka
Expolanka
Expolanka Holdings is a leading diversified conglomerate in Sri Lanka with interests in transportation, manufacturing, international trading and strategic investments with an established presence in over 13 countries across the globe-History:...
's ExpoRail, and Blue Line Company's Rajadhani Express operate premium services on certain trains. While ExpoRail and Rajadhani do not yet operate their own trains, they provide premium services in dedicated carraiges on Sri Lanka Railways-operated trains.
Freight Transport
Freight services used to make up most of the railways' revenue. But in the 1960s, passenger traffic overtook freight, and most container traffic shifted to road transport, often leading to logistical challenges and delays.In 2011, the railways revived the rail link to the Port of Colombo, enabling bulk movement of cargo, while causing less pollution. A train can generally carry around 20-24 twenty-foot equivalent container units, greatly improving the efficiency of freight transport and making cargo easier to track.
Commuter rail and railbus
Commuter rail services connect Colombo to its suburbs, helping alleviate rush hour congestion on city roads. Commuter trains use the same track as the intercity services, but only run locally. Electrification of the commuter rail network has been proposed, to improve energy efficiency and sustainability.Colombo's commuter rail network consists of 100 kilometres of track from Panadura to Polgahawela, running via Fort Station
Fort Railway Station (Colombo)
Fort Railway Station is a major rail hub in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The station is served by Sri Lanka Railways, with many inter-city and commuter trains entering each day...
and Maradana Station. The route is multiple tracked to handle the intensive service during peak times.
In areas without significant demand for regular commuter trains, such as in the Eastern province
Eastern Province, Sri Lanka
The Eastern Province is one of the 9 provinces of Sri Lanka. The provinces have existed since the 19th century but they didn't have any legal status until 1987 when the 13th Amendment to the 1978 Constitution of Sri Lanka established provincial councils. Between 1988 and 2006 the province was...
, railbus
Railbus
A railbus is a very lightweight type passenger rail vehicle that shares many aspects of their construction with a bus, usually having a bus, or modified bus body, and having four wheels on a fixed base, instead of on bogies...
connects towns and cities. Railbus between Batticaloa and Trincomalee allows passengers to travel between the two cities with fewer delays.
Early Trams
The northern and central areas of the city of Colombo had an electric tram car system, operated by the Colombo Electric Tram Car and Lighting Company Ltd. This system commenced operations around 1900. For half a century, the trams dominated Colombo's roads, carrying thousands of commuters.The tram system operated with 42" gauge track, that was sunk into the road. The system had two tram models in its rolling stock.
After an infamous tram car strike, the Colombo Municipal Council
Colombo Municipal Council
The Colombo Municipal Council is the local council for Colombo, the largest city and financial centre in Sri Lanka. The council was formed in 1865 and first met in 1866. The municipal council is the oldest and the largest local government authority in Sri Lanka and, as of 2001, covers a resident...
took over operations. Subsequently, the tram car system was phased out and the system was discontinued by 1960.
Modern Intiatives
A metro transitRapid transit
A rapid transit, underground, subway, elevated railway, metro or metropolitan railway system is an electric passenger railway in an urban area with a high capacity and frequency, and grade separation from other traffic. Rapid transit systems are typically located either in underground tunnels or on...
system was proposed, in the 2010s, to serve commuters in Colombo as a clean, environmentally friendly transit option. It would reduce the load on the over-crowded commuter rail system and eleviate congestion on major roads. A consortium of three companies is conducting feasibility studies on this project.
Operators
Sri Lanka RailwaysSri Lanka Railways
Sri Lanka Railway Department, branded "Sri Lanka Railways", is a key department of the Sri Lankan Government under the Ministry of Transport with a history that begins in 1858...
operates nearly all rail services in Sri Lanka. A state-owned enterprise, Sri Lanka Railways operates both intercity services and commuter rail. It also operates freight transport.
Private operators provide a few services, using Sri Lanka Railways' equipment and infrastructure. The Viceroy Special
Viceroy Special
The Viceroy Special is a special passenger train service operated by J.F. Tours & Travels Ltd. Powered by the sole steam locomotive kept in operation in Sri Lanka, it is operated as a private train on all railway lines in the island...
, a heritage train run using a preserved steam locomotive, is operated by J.F. Tours & Travels (Ceylon) Ltd. Airport & Aviation Services Limited operates the Airport Express, between Colombo Secretariat Station and Bandaranaike International Airport
Bandaranaike International Airport
Bandaranaike International Airport is Sri Lanka's only international airport at the moment. Mattala International Airport, when it gets built will be the second International Airport of Sri Lanka. It is located in Katunayake, north of Colombo...
.
On 6th October 2011, Expolanka
Expolanka
Expolanka Holdings is a leading diversified conglomerate in Sri Lanka with interests in transportation, manufacturing, international trading and strategic investments with an established presence in over 13 countries across the globe-History:...
launched premium services on Sri Lankan trains, under the brand ExpoRail. Within the same day, Blue Line Company launched a competing service, the Rajadhani Express. ExpoRail and Rajadhani do not yet operate their own trains, but run a premium section on trains operated by Sri Lanka Railways.
The tram system in Colombo was operated by the Colombo Electric Tram Car and Lighting Company Ltd, before being taken over by the Municipal Council and shut down.
Network and infrastructure
Presently the Sri Lankan railway network consists of 1,508 kilometres, all of which is 5 ft 6 in (1,676 mm) broad gaugeIndian gauge
Indian gauge is a track gauge commonly used in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Argentina and Chile. It is also the gauge that is used on BART , in northern California.- Scotland :...
. As of July 2011, none of the network is electrified and all regular services run on diesel power. Some lines were narrow gauge lines, at 2 ft 6 in (762 mm), before being converted to broad gauge.
Locomotives and rolling stock
Till 1953, Sri Lankan Railways served with steam locomotives. In the mid-twentieth century, it enhanced its service to more power with diesel locomotives, under the leadership of B. D. Rampala. Various types of diesel locomotives were added to the service. Some of the earliest diesel locomotives to be imported are still in service today.Trams that used to serve on the streets of Colombo have all been scrapped, as there was no incentive at the time for preservation.
Track and signalling
The Railway is currently modernising and extending the Coast Line to facilitate faster trains and improved efficiency. Electrification of the busiest sections of the network was proposed in 2010, to improve energy efficiency and sustainability, but no work was carried out.Much of the network uses a lock-and-block signaling system. But in the mid-twentieth century, the busiest sectors, around Colombo, were upgraded to electronic signalling connected to a CTC control panel
Centralized traffic control
Centralized traffic control is a form of railway signalling that originated in North America and centralizes train routing decisions that were previously carried out by local signal operators or the train crews themselves. The system consists of a centralized train dispatcher's office that...
at Maradana Railway Station
Maradana Railway Station
Maradana Railway Station is a major rail hub in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The station is served by Sri Lanka Railways, with many inter-city and commuter trains entering each day. It is the terminus of several intercity trains.- History :...
.
In 2011, the railways began a project to add electronic signalling to the rail lines in the North. Track between Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura, , is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Lankan civilization.The city, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies 205 km north of the current capital Colombo in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, on the banks of the historic...
, Kankesanturai, and Talaimannar
Talaimannar
Talaimannar is a settlement in Sri Lanka located on the northwestern coast of Mannar Island.- Transport :Prior to the severe destructions by a cyclone in December 1964, it was the terminus of a ferry service to India across the very shallow Palk Bay...
would be given electronic signalling with centralized traffic control, interlocking colour light system with electrically operated points, and track detection system. Level crossings would also be connected to the signalling system, thus ensuring safety at crossings.
After the 2011 Alawwa crash, SLR started to install a GPS-based train-protection system on its entire fleet. The system warns drivers of a possible collision and allows enough time for the drivers to manually bring the two trains to a halt. The fleet can also be monitored by the central control room using the system. A trial run was carried out in early November with just ten trains. The railway is now installing the system on the entire fleet.
Routes
The railway connects major population centres and tourist destinations. Service began in 1864, with the construction of the Main Line from ColomboColombo
Colombo is the largest city of Sri Lanka. It is located on the west coast of the island and adjacent to Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, the capital of Sri Lanka. Colombo is often referred to as the capital of the country, since Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte is a satellite city of Colombo...
to Ambepussa
Ambepussa
Ambepussa is a town in the Kegalla District in Sri Lanka Also one more Ambepussa in Gampaha District.- History :The first railroad tracks in Sri Lanka led from Colombo to Ambepussa .- Geography :...
, 54 kilometers to the east. The first train ran on 27 December 1864. The line was officially opened for traffic on 2 October 1865. The Main Line was extended in stages with service to Kandy
Kandy
Kandy is a city in the center of Sri Lanka. It was the last capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka. The city lies in the midst of hills in the Kandy plateau, which crosses an area of tropical plantations, mainly tea. Kandy is one of the most scenic cities in Sri Lanka; it is both an...
in 1867, to Nawalapitiya
Nawalapitiya
Nawalapitiya is a town in the country of Sri Lanka. It is in the Kandy administrative district, 38 kilometers away from Kandy. The town is near Mahaweli Ganga. Nawalapitiya is a one of the well planned towns of SriLanka.It is well connected to all nearby important places by Bus...
in 1874, to Nanu-Oya in 1885, to Bandarawela
Bandarawela
Bandarawela is the second largest city in Badulla District which is 28 km away from Badulla. Due to higher altitude, Bandarawela has a mild weather condition throughout the year hence, it is popular among the citizens to spend the vacations with their family members...
in 1894, and to Badulla
Badulla
Badulla , is the capital of Uva Province, Sri Lanka. Badulla is located 60 km southeast of Kandy, almost encircled by the Badulu Oya River, about 680 metres above sea level and is surrounded by picturesque hills and mountains, most of which have tea plantations.-Geography:It is located on the...
in 1924.
Other lines were completed in due course to link the country: the Matale Line in 1880, the Coast Line in 1895, the Northern Line in 1905, the Mannar Line in 1914, the Kelani Valley Line in 1919, the Puttalam Line in 1926, and the Batticaloa and Trincomalee Lines in 1928.
Main Line
The Main Line starts from Colombo and runs east and north past the rapidly developing centers of RagamaRagama
Ragama is a municipality located in the Western Province, Sri Lanka.Ragama is easily accessible from the Colombo - Negambo main road and is about from Mahabage junction. This is a well known town due to one major Railway junction where the main line and the Puttalam line meet. The town is also...
, Gampaha
Gampaha
Gampaha is an urban city in Sri Lanka and is the capital of the Gampaha District in Western Province, north of Colombo. Gampaha District is separated from Colombo mainly by the Kelani River.-Namesake:...
, Veyangoda, and Polgahawela
Polgahawela
Polgahawela is a town in north western Sri Lanka. The town is most notable for a major railway accident that occurred in 2005. Polgahawela is a small city that belongs to the North Western Province of Sri Lanka, and situated at a distance of 80 km north-east from the capital city of Colombo; 50 km...
. At Rambukkana, the Main Line begins its steep climb into the hills of the upcountry. Between Balana and Kadugannawa
Kadugannawa
Kadugannawa is a town in Kandy District in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. It is located along the A1 road west of Peradeniya. The town is served by Kadugannawa Railway Station and has the Kadugannawa Central College.-References:...
, the track clings to the side of sheer cliffs, offering passengers spectacular views of Batalegala ('Bible' Rock).
The Main Line then continues its climb through the scenic tea country, connecting busy local market centers at Gampola
Gampola
Gampola is a town located near Kandy in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. Gampola was made the capital city of the island by King Buwanekabahu IV, who ruled for four years in the mid fourteenth century. The last king of Gampola was King Buwanekabahu V. He ruled the island for 29 years. A separate...
, Nawalapitiya
Nawalapitiya
Nawalapitiya is a town in the country of Sri Lanka. It is in the Kandy administrative district, 38 kilometers away from Kandy. The town is near Mahaweli Ganga. Nawalapitiya is a one of the well planned towns of SriLanka.It is well connected to all nearby important places by Bus...
, and Hatton
Hatton, Sri Lanka
Hatton , is a small town in Nuwara Eliya District of Central Province, Sri Lanka. It is known for its Ceylon tea plantations and industry. Hatton, which is locally administered by Hatton-Dickoya Urban Council, had 14,255 in population according to the census carried out in 2001. The town is...
before reaching Nanu-Oya. This is the connection to the former colonial resort of Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya , meaning "city on the plain " or "city of light", is a town in the central highlands of Sri Lanka with a picturesque landscape and temperate climate. It is located at an altitude of 1,868 m and is considered to be the most important location for Tea production in Sri Lanka...
, still popular for its temperate climate, classic hotels, and British-style gardens. The Main Line continues its ascent to the summit at Pattipola, 6,226 feet above sea level, before descending past Bandarawela
Bandarawela
Bandarawela is the second largest city in Badulla District which is 28 km away from Badulla. Due to higher altitude, Bandarawela has a mild weather condition throughout the year hence, it is popular among the citizens to spend the vacations with their family members...
to Badulla
Badulla
Badulla , is the capital of Uva Province, Sri Lanka. Badulla is located 60 km southeast of Kandy, almost encircled by the Badulu Oya River, about 680 metres above sea level and is surrounded by picturesque hills and mountains, most of which have tea plantations.-Geography:It is located on the...
. In the upcountry, passengers are rewarded with views of tea gardens, mountains and valleys, cascading torrents and waterfalls.
Coastal Line
The Coastal Line runs south from Colombo, following the edge of the Indian Ocean. It offers passengers views of tropical beaches and coconut palms. This line links the regional towns of MoratuwaMoratuwa
Moratuwa is a city on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, near Dehiwela-Mount Lavinia. It is situated on the Galle–Colombo main highway, 18 km south of the capital, Colombo. Moratuwa is surrounded on three sides by water, except in the north of the city, by the Indian Ocean on the west...
, Panadura
Panadura
- History :The historic debate 'Panadura Vadaya' was held in this place which is a milestone of the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka with the initiative of the ven. Migettuwaththe Gunananda Thera.- People and Culture :Panadura is home to about 100,000 citizens...
, and Kalutara
Kalutara
Kalutara is a resort town located approximately 40 km south of Colombo in Sri Lanka.- Overview :Once an important spice-trading center, the city's name is derived from the Kalu Ganga River . In the 11th Century, the town was temporarily made a capital on the orders of a South Indian Prince...
South, as well as popular beach resorts at Aluthgama
Aluthgama
Aluthgama is a coastal town in the Western Province of Sri Lanka...
, Ambalangoda, and Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is a small town on the south coast of Sri Lanka. It is located in the Southern Province, about 17 km north-west of Galle. Hikkaduwa is famous for its beach, surfing, corals and night life....
. The line continues past Galle
Galle
Galle is a city situated on the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka, 119 km from Colombo. Galle is the capital city of Southern Province of Sri Lanka and it lies in Galle District....
, which is famous for its historic and well-preserved Dutch Fort, before terminating at Matara
Matara, Sri Lanka
Matara is a city on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, 160 km from Colombo. It is one of the largest cities in Sri Lanka. It was deeply affected by the Asian tsunami in December 2004.-History:...
.
The Coast Line is currently being extended to Kataragama
Kataragama
Kataragama is a pilgrimage town popular with Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim and indigenous Vedda communities of Sri Lanka and South India. The town has Ruhunu Maha Kataragama devalaya, a shrine dedicated to Skanda-Murukan also known as Kataragamadevio...
.
Puttalam Line
The Puttalam Line branches off the Main Line at RagamaRagama
Ragama is a municipality located in the Western Province, Sri Lanka.Ragama is easily accessible from the Colombo - Negambo main road and is about from Mahabage junction. This is a well known town due to one major Railway junction where the main line and the Puttalam line meet. The town is also...
, extending north past Ja-Ela
Ja-Ela
Ja-Ela is a major suburb approximately 20 km north of Colombo city center Fort, Sri Lanka.-Etymology:The Term Ja-Ela means Javanese Canal and denotes historical the presence of Sri Lankan Malays in the area...
, Seeduwa
Seeduwa
' Seeduwa is a town in Gampaha District in the Western Province of Sri Lanka....
, Katunayake
Katunayake
Katunayake , is a town situated on the west coast of the island of Sri Lanka near Negombo and close to the commercial capital of Colombo. It is the site of Bandaranaike International Airport, the primary international air gateway to Sri Lanka...
and Negombo
Negombo
Negombo is a town of about 121,933, approximately 37 km north of Colombo, in Sri Lanka. It is located at the mouth of the Negombo Lagoon, about 7 km from the Bandaranaike International Airport...
, an important regional town and tourist centre. It goes further to connect to northwestern Sri Lanka, reaching Kochikade, Luniwila
Luniwila
Luniwila is a town in Sri Lanka lying near the coast to the north of the capital, Colombo....
, where the National Coconut Research Center is located, Nattandiya, Madampe
Madampe
Madampe is a town situated in the Puttalam District, of North Western Province, Sri Lanka.-Maduganga and Madampe Lakes:Two lakes, Maduganga and Madampe, are located on the south-western coast of Sri Lanka. They are twin lakes connected by a narrow channel of 3 km in length. The surface areas of the...
, Chilaw
Chilaw
Chilaw is a western seaboard town on the island of Sri Lanka.It is a bustling town with a famous fishmarket and beach...
, and Puttalam.
The Puttalam Line also links other busy market towns and fishing villages. Passenger service ends at Noor Nagar station just north of Puttalam, beyond that the tracks are used exclusively by Holcim
Holcim
Holcim is a Swiss-based global company supplying cement and aggregates . The company also supplies ready-mix concrete and asphalt including associated construction services.-Holcim Group:...
cement freight trains.
Kelani Valley Line
The Kelani Valley LineKelani Valley Railway Line
The Kelani Valley Railway Line, in Sri Lanka, covering the breadth of Colombo District and some parts of Kegalla and Ratnapura Districts is owned, maintained and operated by the Sri Lanka Railways.- History :...
extends from Colombo-Maradana and east to Avissawella
Avissawella
Avissawella, also known as Seethawakapura or Seethawaka, is a town along the A4 route from Colombo on the Western Coast to Kalmunai in the Eastern Coast of Sri Lanka via Ratnapura, Pelmadulla, Balangoda and Wellawaya.- Overview :...
. This was originally built as a narrow gauge line and was converted to dual gauge between 1991 and 1997.
Matale Line
The Matale Line branches off the Main Line at Peradeniya Junction, near the world-famous Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. It connects to KandyKandy
Kandy is a city in the center of Sri Lanka. It was the last capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka. The city lies in the midst of hills in the Kandy plateau, which crosses an area of tropical plantations, mainly tea. Kandy is one of the most scenic cities in Sri Lanka; it is both an...
, home of the Sri Dalada Maligawa, which houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Lord Buddha
Relic of the tooth of the Buddha
The Sacred Relic of the tooth of Buddha is venerated in Sri Lanka as a relic of the founder of Buddhism.-The relic in India:...
, before descending to Matale
Matale
Matale is a town in the hill country of Sri Lanka, from Colombo and from Kandy. It is an area steeped in history and village living. The mayor of Matale is Hilmy Careem, as of May, 2006....
.
Northern Line
The Northern Line branches northward from the Main Line at PolgahawelaPolgahawela
Polgahawela is a town in north western Sri Lanka. The town is most notable for a major railway accident that occurred in 2005. Polgahawela is a small city that belongs to the North Western Province of Sri Lanka, and situated at a distance of 80 km north-east from the capital city of Colombo; 50 km...
, passing Kurunegala
Kurunegala
Kurunegala , is the capital of the North Western Province, Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka and the Kurunegala District. Kurunegala was also an ancient royal capital for 50 years, from the end of the 13th century to the start of the 13th century. The town itself is a busy commercial and a transport hub...
, the capital of North Western Province
North Western Province, Sri Lanka
North Western Province is a province of Sri Lanka. The districts of Kurunegala and Puttalam formulate Wayamba. Its capital is Kurunegala, which has a population of 28,571. The province is known mainly for its numerous coconut plantations. Other main towns in this province are Chilaw and Puttalam...
, before continuing to the historic cultural and religious center of Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura, , is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Lankan civilization.The city, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies 205 km north of the current capital Colombo in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, on the banks of the historic...
, the island's ancient capital around the 4th century BCE and home to many sites of religious and archaeological interest. Service is now curtailed beyond Omanthai
Omanthai
Omanthai is a little town in North Sri Lankan district of Vavuniya. The last Sri Lankan army check point which divided the Government and LTTE controlled areas used to be in Omanthai for many years.- Transport :...
.
Batticaloa Line
The Batticaloa Line branches eastward from the Northern Line at Maho, to PolonnaruwaPolonnaruwa
The second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 AD to reunite the country once more under a local leader.-History:While Vijayabahu's victory and shifting of Kingdoms to the more strategic Polonnaruwa...
, site of an ancient capital in the 11th century and home to many historic monuments. The line continues to the eastern city of Batticaloa
Batticaloa
Batticaloa is a city in the Eastern province of Sri Lanka. It is the seat of the Eastern University of Sri Lanka. It is on the east coast, south by south east of Trincomalee, and is situated on an island.-Etymology:...
.
Trincomalee Line
The Trincomalee Line branches north and east from the Batticaloa Line at Gal-Oya Junction and extends to TrincomaleeTrincomalee
Trincomalee is a port city in Eastern Province, Sri Lanka and lies on the east coast of the island, about 113 miles south of Jaffna. It has a population of approximately 100,000 . The city is built on a peninsula, which divides the inner and outer harbours. Overlooking the Kottiyar Bay,...
.
International link to India
A move to link the railways of Sri Lanka and IndiaRail transport in India
Rail transport is a commonly used mode of long-distance transportation in India. Almost all rail operations in India are handled by a state-owned organisation, Indian Railways, Ministry of Railways. The rail network traverses the length and breadth of the country, covering a total length of...
never materialised. However, a boat service once connected the closest railhead
Railhead
The word railhead is a railway term with two distinct meanings, depending upon its context.Sometimes, particularly in the context of modern freight terminals, the word is used to denote a terminus of a railway line, especially if the line is not yet finished, or if the terminus interfaces with...
s between Sri Lanka and India.
A 22-mile bridge to link the two countries had been proposed as early as 1894, by the Consultant Engineer for railways in Madras (Chennai
Chennai
Chennai , formerly known as Madras or Madarasapatinam , is the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, located on the Coromandel Coast off the Bay of Bengal. Chennai is the fourth most populous metropolitan area and the sixth most populous city in India...
). The proposal was given serious consideration and a technical blueprint
Blueprint
A blueprint is a type of paper-based reproduction usually of a technical drawing, documenting an architecture or an engineering design. More generally, the term "blueprint" has come to be used to refer to any detailed plan....
and cost analysis was conducted. By 1914, the Mannar line was built to connect Talaimannar
Talaimannar
Talaimannar is a settlement in Sri Lanka located on the northwestern coast of Mannar Island.- Transport :Prior to the severe destructions by a cyclone in December 1964, it was the terminus of a ferry service to India across the very shallow Palk Bay...
on Mannar Island
Mannar Island
Mannar Island, formerly called Manar Island, is part of Mannar District, Sri Lanka. It is linked to the rest of Sri Lanka by a causeway.It has an area of about 50 square kilometres, mainly covered with vegetation and sand.Rama's Bridge or Rama Setu ,[1] is a chain of limestone shoals, between...
to the Sri Lankan mainland. On the Indian side, the Indian railway network was extended to Dhanushkodi. The international bridge to link the two was not built.
The ferry service to connect the railheads at Talaimannar and Dhanushkodi lasted until the 1960s, when a cyclone destroyed the pier and rail line at Dhanushkodi. The ferry service resumed with the Indian terminus at Rameshwaram, a service that also closed, due to the Sri Lankan conflict.
In the 2000s, the rail bridge to connect the two countries was proposed again, highlighting the benefits of connecting the ports of Colombo and Trincomalee
Trincomalee
Trincomalee is a port city in Eastern Province, Sri Lanka and lies on the east coast of the island, about 113 miles south of Jaffna. It has a population of approximately 100,000 . The city is built on a peninsula, which divides the inner and outer harbours. Overlooking the Kottiyar Bay,...
with Chennai.
See also
- Sri Lanka RailwaysSri Lanka RailwaysSri Lanka Railway Department, branded "Sri Lanka Railways", is a key department of the Sri Lankan Government under the Ministry of Transport with a history that begins in 1858...
, the state-run railway operator - Railway stations in Sri LankaRailway stations in Sri LankaList of railway stations in Sri Lanka include:- A :* Ahangama, Southern Province* Ahungalle, Southern Province* Aluthgama, Western Province* Ambalangoda, Southern Province* Ambanpola, North Central Province* Ambepussa, Western Province...
- Transport in Sri Lanka
External links
- RAIL TRANSPORT IN SRI LANKA
- Sri Lanka Railways Official Site
- Ceylon Railway Enthusiasts Circle (CREC)
- Sri Lanka Railways Forum (TimeTable, News, Books, Image Gallery, Etc...)
- Sri Lankan Diesel Locomotives Page
- Yakada Yaka - Ceylon Railway Pictures & Information
- Sri Lanka Railway - Pictures
- BRUSH BAGNALL SRI LANKA Restoration web site
- Gyan Railway site
- Sri Lanka Railways Photo Collection
- Sri Lanka Train Schedule Android Application