India To Donate 20 Locomotives to Boost Sri Lanka's Rail Network

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Indian government has generously offered 20 diesel locomotives to Sri Lanka, a significant boost for the island nation's railway network.

H.M.K.W. Bandara, General Manager of Railways in Sri Lanka, confirmed the donation, specifying that these locomotives are being repurposed from India's own railway system.

As India continues its electrification drive, these diesel engines are no longer required, but they remain serviceable.

To ensure compatibility and smooth integration into the existing network, a team of Sri Lankan railway experts recently visited India to assess the locomotives. 

The first step in this collaborative effort is planned for February, when two locomotives are scheduled to be imported to Sri Lanka. 

Following their successful deployment and integration, the remaining 18 locomotives are expected to arrive.