The Anuradhapura to Omanthai section of the reconstructed Northern Railway Line was declared open for operations today with all arrangements ready to recommence Colombo - Jaffna train services from Saturday.
The train started its journey from Anuradhapura to Jaffna after performing traditional Hindu rites in the center of the reconstructed railway line at the Anuradhapura station premises.
Stating that train journeys from Jaffna to Colombo will resume from the July 15, the Minister said “We have made arrangements to start a new luxury night tourist train from Colombo to Jaffna from August 1 to promote the growing tourism business in the Jaffna area and for the convenience of the devotees visiting the area”.
A "Pandu Karanda" plant was planted in the railway station premises by the Minister of Transport and Highways and Mass Media, Bandula Gunawardena. "Padu Karanda" plants were also planted at Kilinochchi and Jaffna railway stations.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe said today he wholly rejects the Batalanda Commission report and that it was appointed wholly with the intention slinging political mud at him.
Leader of the National People’s Party (NPP) and one time Propaganda Secretary of the JVP Wimal Weerawansa accused the Government of bringing back the “Batalanda Commission” for a media spectacle instead of a genuine concern for those who suffered during the 1988-1990 period.
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