IRCON International Limited, a state enterprise from India, has commenced the restoration of Sri Lanka’s rail track to Jaffna, which was damaged by Cyclone Ditwah, according to a statement from the High Commission of India. The reconstruction effort is supported by a $5 million grant from India.
The affected sections of the Northern rail track include Maho–Omanthai, Omanthai–Jaffna, and Medawachchiya–Mannar, all of which sustained significant damage, disrupting rail connectivity across the Northern and North Central regions. Originally constructed by IRCON on a line of credit, the Northern track is capable of supporting trains traveling at speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour.
The statement further detailed plans to restore regular train services to pre-Cyclone Ditwah frequencies within three months, aiming for completion by April 2026, ahead of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. The remaining work is expected to be finalized by May 2026. This accelerated timeline will necessitate the large-scale deployment of manpower and specialized machinery. Additionally, IRCON International Limited will address pending ancillary work on the Maho–Omanthai railway line, supported by India’s continued Line of Credit.
In parallel, India has initiated the installation of signaling and telecommunications systems along the Maho–Anuradhapura Railway Line, facilitated by a $2.5 million tranche of grants. This initiative is part of a $14.89 million credit line that has been converted to a grant.
Overall, India has committed $1.2 billion to upgrade 500 kilometers of track, 400 kilometers of signaling, and rolling stock. For the reconstruction efforts post-Ditwah, India has announced $450 million in assistance, with $100 million allocated as grants.
(Colombo/Jan14/2026)
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