The Railway Department has announced that numerous office trains will be canceled following the strike initiated by station masters at midnight on July 9. The strike, driven by demands including the lack of promotions, has severely impacted train services.
Despite the strike, the department has arranged for limited train services, including:
- Two trains each from Fort to Negombo and Veyangoda
- Two trains from Polgahawela to Fort
- Three trains from Galle to Fort
- One train from Aluthgama to Colombo Fort
In response to the disruption, the Ministry of Transport has declared that passengers with railway season tickets can use their tickets to access bus services provided by the Ceylon Transport Board today (July 10).
The Secretary of the Ministry of Transport has deemed the strike by the Railway Station Masters’ Association as illegal and warned of strict disciplinary actions against those who fail to report to work. Public transport, including railway services, has been declared essential services.
Adding to the complexity, the Railway Controllers Association has announced their support for the strike, as stated by its president, Mr. Dishana Patabandige.
The strike has caused significant inconvenience to the public, with chaotic scenes reported at train stations last night as frustrated passengers expressed their dissatisfaction.