Gates at all railway level crossings

by Ananda KANNANGARA

An immediate survey on all unprotected railway crossings in the country will be carried out by the Railway Department on a directive from Transport Minister Dullas Alahapperuma. It is said that over 300 unprotected railway crossings are in the country at present.The Ministerial decision was taken following a series of train- motor vehicle collisions as well as fatal accidents that occurred during the past few months at many railway level crossings. The accidents had resulted in the deaths of several people and damage to millions worth of property.

Railway Operating Superintendent, Vijaya Samarasinghe told the Sunday Observer, that the objective of this survey is to get the total number of unprotected railway crossings and instal either permanent or temporary bamboo gates in order to minimise the damage to life and property.

"Our prime objective is to provide all unprotected railway crossings with permanent electric or automatic gates during the coming months," he said.Meanwhile, a senior Railway official said a special program will be implemented in collaboration with Local Government bodies to instal railway gates in their respective areas of authority.

Special attention will be paid on the demolition of all unauthorised structures such as parapet walls and houses which are in close proximity to railway crossings since it would help avoid accidents, he pointed out.