No fault on drivers for withdrawing faulty trains from operations

No technical fault exists in the decision made by train drivers to withdraw from operating locomotives with technical defects, according to Deputy Transport Minister Prasanna Gunasena.

This development follows the derailment of the "Sagarika" express train, traveling from Beliatta to Maradana, which occurred on the 24th in the Wadduwa area. Yesterday, the Railway Department took steps to temporarily relieve the driver, assistant driver, guard, and sub-guard of their duties until the investigation into the incident is concluded.

Against this backdrop, the President of the Locomotive Operating Engineers' Union, Jeeva Gunawardena, announced during a press conference in Colombo that members will refrain from operating any trains with technical deficiencies. Consequently, railway drivers stated that trains on the coastal line and other routes will experience delays this afternoon.