No increase in train fares - minister

Ishara MUDUGAMUWA

Train fares will not be increased, said Transport Minister Kumara Welgama addressing the media yesterday at the Ministry.

Minister Kumara Welgama

"Train fare is very low compared to other fares of public transport services. As a result, there is a daily increase in the number of train commuters." the minister said.

He also said President Mahinda Rajapaksa also wants to increase the number of railway passengers and has always emphasised that there should not be an increase in train fares. "Some passengers are complaining about train delays even on the coastal railway line though it has been modernized. Most of the trains are delayed due to signal failures, specially between Koralawella and Wadduwa. These problems will be solved in the near future." Minister Welgama said.

He further said the Railway Department will take immediate measures to find solutions to train delays on the Kelani Valley Railway

Line. The Kelani Valley railway line needs to be modernised by reducing the number of curves along the track. This will help provide a speedier train service.