Five more power sets in operation
Irangika Range
"Five of the 13 high-tech power-sets imported from China have arrived
and the rest would arrive in the country before the end of the year,"
Transport Minister Kumara Welgama told the Daily News.
"Sri Lanka Railways (SLR) has ordered 13 power sets (S-12 category)
from China on easy payment terms as a result of strong bilateral
relations between China and Sri Lanka," he said.
The loan would be settled within 15 years.
The cost of the 13 S-12 category trains is US $ 101 million.
Minister Welgama recently inspected these power sets at the Railway
Yard in Dematagoda which are undergoing test runs.
The minister was satisfied with the finish, technology and modern
facilities in the power-sets. After test-runs to the up country and
Kelani Valley routes, the five trains would be ready for operation, he
said. The SLR has decided to deploy seven power sets on the upcountry
railway line and four of them would be used in the Kelani Valley railway
line.
Two luxury trains would also be imported. Each compartment has 44
seats in addition to a restaurant and facilities to dump litter. The
seven power-sets, which would be operated from Colombo to the up
country, consist of one luxury carriage.
In addition, each train consists of three second class compartments
and four third class carriages, he said.
The air-conditioned luxury carriage has adjustable seats, the
minister further said. "Power sets have been specially designed for long
distance travel with all facilities."
He said power sets provide a standard and safety service to commuters
while easing the morning and afternoon rush.
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