Distress relief allowance for Railway employees

Irangika Range

The Government has decided to grant a special distress relief allowance for 17,000 Sri Lanka Railways employees.

The Cabinet has given approval to this proposal submitted by Transport Minister Dullas Alahapperuma.

Minister Dullas Alahapperuma said this has been a long time request by railway employees.

"We have decided to fulfill the request as it would vastly encourage railway employees towards providing an efficient, reliable and quality railway service.

"It is necessary to provide best employee satisfaction for a good and comfortable service for train commuters," the Minister said.

Accordingly, Sri Lanka Railway employees would be entitled to this special payment when they become victims following derailments, train accidents, floods and other natural disasters. Railway employees are also entitled to the distress loan paid to public servants.

The allowance would be paid when on the employees are subjected to distress. Rs. 200 will be paid per hour for the first 6-12 hours and Rs. 300 per hour exceeding 12 hours.