SRI LANKA ARMY SUPPORTS RESTORATION OF NORTHERN RAILWAY LINE AFFECTED BY CYCLONE DITVA

Heavy rains brought by Cyclone Ditva caused extensive damage to sections of the railway line running from Anuradhapura to Kankesanthurai, particularly within the Thandikulam area under the 56 Infantry Division’s area of responsibility. Several breaches were reported in the Thandikulam, Nochchimotei and Omanthai areas, disrupting rail services and causing inconvenience to passengers who rely heavily on this vital transportation route.

In response to the situation, immediate restoration measures were initiated under the guidance and direction of Major General K M P S B Kulatunga RSP ndc psc, Commander Security Force Headquarters (Wanni), and under the supervision of Major General S A U A Solangaarachchi RSP ndc psc, General Officer Commanding 56 Infantry Division. Acting on the instructions of the Commander 563 Infantry Brigade, the restoration work was carried out in coordination with the Sri Lanka Railways Department, with the active involvement of the Commanding Officer of the 7th Battalion Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment.

Accordingly, the rehabilitation of the damaged railway track was expedited to facilitate the early resumption and expansion of public transportation services. A contingent of 01 x 30 troops from the 7th Battalion Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment was deployed on a continuous day-and-night basis over a three-day period from 07 to 09 December 2025. The operation was further supported by 01 x JCB, 01 x tractor with driver, and 02 personnel from the Sri Lanka Army Engineers, providing essential technical expertise and manpower. This timely military assistance significantly contributed to the rapid restoration of rail connectivity, underscoring the Sri Lanka Army’s steadfast commitment to national infrastructure support and effective disaster-response operations.