New night mail train service from Colombo to Vavuniya

Hiran SENEWIRATNE in Vavuniya

A new night mail train service was launched by the Government from Colombo to Vavuniya starting 9.45 pm yesterday.

"This is another historic move taken by the Government on President Mahinda Rajapaksa's direction," Transport Minister Dullas Alahapperuma told the media in Vavuniya yesterday.

The Minister said the night mail service was suspended in March, 2008 following terrorist activities. The Government has been able to re-commence the night mail train service due to moves taken by it to eradicate terrorism.

Arrangements have also been made to extend the time of the night bus service operating in Vavuniya. The present night bus service operating until 7.30pm will be extended up to 10.00pm, he said.

The Minister said the Government will re-open the A-9 road only after the demining activities are completed and the green light given by the UN.

Measures will also be taken to develop the transportation of goods via a land route from Colombo to Vavuniya.

The Government will take steps to develop Vavuniya as a key economic hub. Initiatives will also be taken to reduce the number of check points in Vavuniya in keeping with the favourable security situation, he added.