Dual track for Kalutara-Aluthgama line

by Divakara Mohotti, Kalutara Gr. Cor.

Steps are being taken to convert the Kalutara-Aluthgama railway line to a dual way on a proposal by the Transport and Highways Minister Kumara Welgama.

Thousands of commuters who pass daily between the two stations are handicapped due to the absence of a dual carriage, and the time wasted in crossing the distance of eight metres from Kalutara to Payagala can be avoided.

The first phase of the program from Payagala to Kalutara South will cost Rs. 300 million, Ministry sources said.

The sea has to be filled up to a distance of 10 metres from Wetumakada Payagala.

The track will be built on the railway protected land and no private land is needed to be acquired the sources said.

It is also proposed to build a 10 ft wide road. The first stage is expected to be completed by mid 2014 according to the minister's proposal.