December 02, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Railways has confirmed that several major rail services will face significant restrictions today (02) as bad weather continues to hamper access to crucial sections of the network.
According to the latest operational update, trains on the main line will run only as far as Ambepussa, while Puttalam line services will terminate at Kochchikade. Services on the Kelani Valley and Coastal routes are expected to proceed without interruption, though officials cautioned that conditions remain subject to change.
Railway authorities reported that 18 scheduled trains on both the main and Puttalam lines have been suspended, largely due to blocked or unsafe tracks leading to Polgahawela, Rambukkana, Kurunegala, Ganewatta, Chilaw and Puttalam.
Floodwaters, soft embankments and the risk of landslides have made it impossible for inspection teams to guarantee safe passage further up the line. Engineers are continuing to monitor the affected stretches, but repairs cannot begin until water levels recede.
Passengers were advised to factor in delays and potential last-minute adjustments, with the Department encouraging commuters to seek alternative transport where possible. Additional buses have been deployed on certain routes to help ease the congestion caused by the rail disruption.
Meanwhile, Trade Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe reassured the public that the country is not facing any shortage of essential food items. He stated that stocks are being moved systematically across the island and stressed that supply chains remain intact despite the extreme weather.
With the support of the security forces, distribution teams are working to reach isolated communities where roads remain submerged or blocked by debris, ensuring that families in remote or heavily affected areas continue to receive vital provisions.
