Railway unions to launch work-to-rule from tonight

Railway unions have decided to take part in a work-to-rule trade union action citing several demands including salary anomalies from tonight (Sept 19).

This trade union action would escalate into a countrywide strike next Thursday if these issues are not addressed, Locomotive Operating Engineers Union Chairman Lal Ariyaratne told a news conference today.

Mr. Ariyaratne noted that railway controllers, drivers, and supervisors will take part in the trade union action.

The strike has been centered around the salary issues of railway employees and the penalties imposed on train crews as a result of train accidents caused due to speeding.

"A cabinet paper which had been approved previously to resolve wages issues of railway employees has not been implemented yet," Indika Dodangoda, Secretary of the Locomotive Engine Operators’ Union told Times Online.

Mr. Dodanoda said that the trade union action would also take place to protest against fines which are being collected from the train crew as a result of damages caused to train compartments and engines due to accidents caused by speeding.