World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Sri Lanka Railways grapples with critical engine shortage as half of fleet remains inactive
A Railway Department assessment has exposed a significant operational crisis, with just 50 of 98 available train engines currently in service. The shortfall is expected to further constrain railway operations across the country.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
An internal Railway Department report has revealed that less than half of the national fleet is operational, threatening to intensify disruptions to passenger and freight services. Of the 98 engines available to the department, only 50 are presently able to run scheduled services, leaving a substantial portion of rolling stock idle.
The shortage comes at a time when Sri Lanka's rail network faces mounting pressure to meet transport demands. The significant gap between available and operational engines suggests maintenance backlogs, technical faults, or resource constraints are hampering the department's ability to field its full complement of locomotives.
Railway officials have not yet issued a formal statement addressing the operational shortfall or outlining plans to restore additional engines to service. The situation is expected to have immediate implications for timetabling and service frequency across major routes.
The findings underscore ongoing challenges within the state railway system, which has struggled with aging infrastructure and insufficient funding in recent years. Commuters and freight operators may face further delays and service reductions as the department attempts to manage operations with its limited active fleet.