Railway services to become an essential service

COLOMBO (News 1st) - As the Railway trade union strike enters its 3rd day, the government is taking steps towards making railways services an essential service. Deputy Minister of Transport Ashok Abeysinghe said the gazette notification is currently being drafted. He added that this measure will soon be enforced taking into consideration hardships faced by the general public. The strike launched by railway trade unions demanding their salaries be increased to the M2 salary grade has entered its third day today (August 10). Secretary of the Railway Drivers' Union Indika Dodangoda said the trade unions decided yesterday (August 09) to continue the strike until they receive a solution to their demand. The Railway Control Room said 10 trains operated by technical supervisors were dispatched for service this morning (August 10). The Railway Control Room added measures are being taken to add two more trains this afternoon. Sri Lanka Transport Board have deployed around 6000 buses due to the ongoing railway strike. Deputy General Manager R. T. Chandrasiri said the buses have been made available across the island.