Rail services restored to Peradeniya after cyclone damage halts 10-month repair effort

Rail services between Rambukkana, Kadigamuwa, Kadugannawa and Peradeniya returned to operation yesterday, nearly ten months after Cyclone Ditwah devastated the mountain railway line in November 2025. The severe weather event caused widespread destruction across the 103-kilometre route, with damage affecting 103 sections of track and triggering 36 major landslides that threatened both rail infrastructure and surrounding communities.

The cyclone's impact forced a complete suspension of services along one of Sri Lanka's most strategically important railway corridors, which connects the central highlands to the lowland rail network. The interruption disrupted passenger and freight movements to the Peradeniya region, affecting commerce, tourism and daily commuters who rely on the route.

Restoration efforts required extensive engineering work to repair damaged track sections, stabilise landslide-prone slopes and reinforce embankments compromised by the disaster. The successful completion of repairs represents a coordinated effort by railway authorities and construction teams operating in challenging mountainous terrain.

Rail officials have confirmed that full operational capacity has been restored on the corridor, with regular services now operational between the major stations along the route. The resumption is expected to relieve congestion on alternative transport routes and restore connectivity to the region.