Restoration work has officially begun on the Northern and Talaimannar railway lines in Sri Lanka, marking a significant step in post‑disaster infrastructure recovery. The launch was held today at the Maho Railway Station, with officials confirming that rehabilitation efforts will proceed with support from international partners.

The project is being backed by a USD 5 million grant from the Government of India, aimed at repairing and modernising stretches of track that were badly damaged during the Cyclone Ditwah disaster. The restored lines are expected to support train operations at speeds of up to 100 kilometres per hour, enhancing connectivity in the northern regions.

Officials have highlighted that the restoration work includes the construction of five new bridges and an underpass to facilitate safer movement of wildlife, particularly elephants, along ecologically sensitive sections of the route.

The Northern and Talaimannar rail lines play a vital role in linking remote communities in the Northern Province with major transport hubs in the south and west, and their rehabilitation is seen as a key milestone in rebuilding infrastructure damaged by natural disasters.

Transportation authorities say the work will be carried out in phases, with ongoing efforts to fully restore rail services and boost economic activity in the region once the repairs are completed.