The Railway Station Masters’ trade union action has caused disruptions to train operations.The Railway Department reported that because of the strike, a number of trains have been cancelled and only a small number of trains are running.
Nonetheless, the department stated that measures have been taken to run two trains each from Colombo Fort to Negombo and Veyangoda, two trains from Polgahawela to Fort, three trains from Galle to Fort, and one train from Aluthgama to Fort.
According to reports, station masters started a trade union action, and railway controllers have decided to back it.
Based on a number of demands, including promotions, the Sri Lanka Railways Station Masters’ Union had decided to go on strike starting at midnight yesterday (09).
“Train strikes caused several to be cancelled.”
The department stated that as a result, a number of trains were cancelled, including the night mail trains to and from Rambukkana, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, and Colombo Fort and Badulla.
Ranjith Rubasinghe, the secretary of the Ministry of Transport, emphasised that the Station Masters’ Union strike is unlawful because public transport, including railway services, has been designated as an essential service.
He also threatened to take severe disciplinary action against anyone who failed to report for duty. Additionally, Rubasinghe stated that the necessary actions have been taken to deploy additional Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) buses in case the strike situation causes any disruptions to the operation of office trains today, October 10.
He emphasised that passengers who have obtained train season tickets will receive free transportation on SLTB buses.
