Phased suburban rail upgrade to begin in Sri Lanka in 2027

Sri Lanka is to launch a programme to electrify and modernise suburban railway network in a phased plan initiating from 2027, disclosed Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways Prasanna Gunasena.

The programme is to prioritise restoring damaged railway infrastructure and developing an electrified commuter rail system.

Initial efforts will focus on repairing railway tracks to quickly resume disrupted services, alongside slope protection measures, including retaining walls and improved drainage to reduce landslide and weather-related risks.

The first phase of electrification is projected to be completed within three to four years after construction starts.

The second phase will upgrade major commuter routes such as the Coastal Line, the Main Line through Polgahawela and Rambukkana, and the Kelani Valley Line.

The project will also introduce standard-gauge rail tracks and electric trains to support frequent short-distance travel.

Under the Colombo suburban rail modernisation plan, electrified train services are expected to begin in 2027 on the Fort–Ragama, Fort–Panadura, and Maradana–Makumbura routes, before expanding into a broader suburban rail loop aimed at improving travel to Colombo.

Authorities noted that due to the scale and cost of the initiative, implementation will take place in stages, with the full suburban rail transformation expected over the next 10 to 15 years.