The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to construct a new railway bridge across the Mahaweli River between Sarasavi Uyana and Peradeniya, with the aim of integrating the Matale railway line into the national railway network.
The project forms part of a broader initiative to develop an extensive suburban railway network covering the Kandy Metropolitan Area. A feasibility study for the proposed project is currently underway.
The project includes upgrading the main railway line between Kadugannawa and Gampola, via Peradeniya, into a double-track railway line, as well as converting the Matale railway line between Peradeniya and Katugastota into a double-track line.
The proposed improvements have been identified as necessary to eliminate capacity constraints caused by the existing single-track railway system and to enhance the reliability and connectivity of the railway network.
The new bridge is expected to be financed through an Indian loan assistance scheme aimed at rehabilitating and developing railway infrastructure damaged by Cyclone Ditwah.
The proposal was submitted by the Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development and received Cabinet approval.
