Description

The project was prepared to support immediate improvements in the operation, maintenance, safety, skills development, and implementation capacity of SLR. The project will (i)improve the operational efficiency of the railway network by addressing key operating bottlenecks with the modernization of the telecommunications, ticketing, operations headquarter, and train control center systems; (ii) upgrade the railway workshop at Ratmalana, and procure rolling stock and track maintenance equipment; (iii) improve railway safety mainly through the construction of housing blocks to support the future resettlement of encroachers, and the improvement of Colombo Fort and Maradana stations; and (iv) upgrade the Sri Lanka German Railway Technical Training Center (SLGRTTC); and (v) support project implementation capacity and readiness, notably for the future modernization of the Kelani Valley line and other suburban lines. The project will increase the efficiency and attractiveness of the railway system, thus contributing to the improvement of the market share and financial sustainability of SLR.