A new direct railway line will be built from Kurunegala to Habarana via Dambulla and Sigiriya at an estimated expense of US$ 1 billion, Minister of State for Transport and Civil Aviation Ashok Abeysinghe said.
“The rail path from Kurunegala to Habarana via Dambulla and Sigiriya was recognized as a priority under the 5-year plan of the’ Let’s Awaken Polonnaruwa’ District Development Program (2016-2020). He said the suggested railway line would be linked to Habarana’s Batticaloa railway line facilitating the passengers bound to Batticaloa.
This project aims to provide easy transportation for individuals in the Eastern and North Central Provinces and to attain provincial growth by linking Dambulla Economic Center with the railway network. The project will also assist increase the tourism industry offering transportation to local and international travelers to visit famous tourist destinations in Dambulla and Sigirya.
“For the project, which is anticipated to be finished by 2025, the property procurement method has already begun,” he added. The track is intended to run trains at 100-120 kmph.