Railways General Manager reverses decision to resign from position

Railways General Manager Dilantha Fernando has agreed to remain in his position following talks with Transport Minister Arjuna Ranatunga, the Transport Ministry said.

Mr. Fernando had reportedly handed over his resignation a few days ago after the Transport Ministry had allegedy attempted to influence his decision to sack a railways officer who had breached work rules.

The officer is believed to have consumed liquor during office hours.

However, following attempts made by the Transport Ministry to re-instate this officer, Mr. Fernando had tendered his resignation. This decision had been reversed following talks with Transport Minister Arjuna Ranatunga.

During discussions with the Minister, it had been decided to suspend the officer from his services and conduct a disciplinary inquiry against him, railways department sources told Times Online. The inquiry would be conducted by the Railways Department.

Meanwhile, the rail strike by unions which had been in effect since midnight against the pressure exerted on the Railways General Manager, has also been called off.