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Peradeniya-Colombo train derailment halts upcountry rail services

Recovery operations are underway following the derailment of a Peradeniya-Colombo passenger train. The incident has forced authorities to suspend all upcountry train services pending completion of re-railing efforts.

LSN Sri Lanka · 10 October 2026

A Peradeniya-Colombo passenger train left the tracks, prompting immediate response from railway authorities to restore normal operations on the key upcountry route. Recovery crews have mobilized specialized equipment to re-rail the stricken train, with operations expected to continue over the coming hours.

As a precautionary measure, all train services operating on upcountry routes have been suspended while the re-railing work progresses. The suspension remains in effect until engineers confirm the track is secure and safe for resumed passenger operations.

The Peradeniya-Colombo line is a critical transport corridor serving commuters and freight between the central highlands and the capital. The service disruption is expected to impact thousands of regular passengers relying on the route.

Authorities have not yet disclosed details regarding the cause of the derailment or whether there were any casualties. Updates on the timeline for resuming normal services are expected once re-railing operations reach completion.