Speed trains between BIA, Kollupitiya in the offing

A proposal to build a railway line and operate speed trains between the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) Katunayake and the Kollupitiya station will be presented to President Mahinda Rajapaksa by its promoters headed by Dr Parimalan Rajo Isa Michael of Airport Express (Rail/Air) Lanka Ltd.

Dr Michael said that they will start on the project as soon as the Government gives the nod. He said that, with increased tourist arrivals it is necessary to improve infrastructure. This will help cut down the time taken for travelling as a train ride from Katunayake to Colombo will take only 25-30 minutes while it will take around two hours by road.

It is proposed to build a railway track along the coast line while the trains will also be imported. Dr Michael said that the investment of the project is $ 100 m which includes the construction of the terminals and the trains. The project will be financed by two Danish nationals, an American and a Korean in cash or equipment.

In addition, the Kollupitiya railway station will be reconstructed.

The station will be downstairs, while upstairs will have an eight storey shopping mall where all imported products will be available. Dr Michael said that he had discussions with SM Mall Philippines, Mega Group and Lot 10 in Malaysia.

In addition, the katunayaka station too will be rebuilt to international standards.

Dr Michael said that once the Government gives the nod it will take about two and a half years to complete the project.

He said that they plan to run 18 trips a day, to and from, while a two way ticket for locals will cost Rs 3500. It will be Rs. 5300 for foreigners.

In addition students can purchase a monthly ticket for a nominal fee.

He said that they will use local labour for the construction of the rail tracks. Once the project is completed there will be provision for check in facilities from the stations to the aircrafts.

(SG)