The Independent Trade Union Collective claims that of the approximately 360 train services previously operated daily by the Department of Railways, only around 150 services are currently in operation.

Executive Committee member Indika Dodangoda said that even the trains that are in service are frequently delayed at departure, causing severe inconvenience to passengers. He noted that many commuters are compelled to seek alternative transport, including buses, from destination railway stations in order to return home.

As an example, he pointed out that the Mahawa train departed from its starting point at Colombo Fort railway station yesterday with a delay of 54 minutes, adding that such delays have now become routine.

Dodangoda alleged that the situation reflects administrative inefficiency within railway management. He claimed that despite having the capacity to provide the necessary locomotives, trains are being delayed on a daily basis without due consideration for passengers.

He further stated that the persistent delays in daily rail transport have forced many commuters to incur additional expenses by hiring taxis or other private transport to reach their homes.