Strike by railway engine drivers ends, after a day of hardship to commuters

A sudden strike staged by railway engine drivers have ended leaving a day of hardship for thousands of commuters during the day.

The strike staged last night was called off by today afternoon following negotiations with the railway management.

But, as many as 35 train trips were cancelled today due to the strike by railway engine drivers from midnight yesterday, officials said.

The cancelled train services included 11 office trains.

The engine drivers went on strike over a range of outstanding issues including the introduction of a new roster and overtime payments.

As a result of the strike office workers and other  passengers were severely inconvenienced. School children too were affected.

Transport Minister Bandula Gunwardena said that drastic action would be taken against those involved in the strike. He said he would have inform the Cabinet and go ahead with plans to set up an Authority.

Outcome of the discussions were not known immediately, but railway authorities said they expected services to return to normal by late evening.

However,  several persons who usually take the train were seen making use of buses to get home as they were no sure of restoration of rail service.