Train services restored on Badulla-Ambewela and Eastern lines

COLOMBO (News 1st) The railway line from Badulla to Ambewela had been disrupted at several points due to landslides caused by the recent disaster, halting train operations.

This morning, train services resumed on this line for the first time in 23 days, following a ceremonial event marking the occasion.

A large number of local and foreign tourists arrived at the Badulla Railway Station this morning to participate in the inaugural journey.

The event was attended by Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure Samantha Vidyaratne, Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe, and other officials.

The train departed from Badulla after multi-religious observances were carried out.

At 9 a.m., the train departed from Badulla towards Ambewela.

Upon arrival at Demodara Railway Station, the train was greeted warmly by the public.

The return of train services brought joy to foreign tourists, who celebrated the reopening with great enthusiasm.

When the train reached its final destination of Ella, locals welcomed it with excitement and delight.

The train later arrived at its final destination, Ambewela.

Meanwhile, train services also resumed today on the Eastern Railway Line, which had been severely damaged by the recent disaster.

At 7 a.m., a passenger train departed from Trincomalee, passing through Gal Oya and Maha Oya, and heading to Colombo Fort.

This railway line had been damaged at several points due to landslides, and all train services, including passenger trains, had been suspended since November 27.

After 23 days, services have now resumed, and the Department of Railways confirmed that both passenger and freight trains will operate along the line as usual.