General Manager of Railways, Dhammika Jayasundara, says the latest initiative to enhance the famed Nine Arch Bridge in Ella is part of a broader push to promote rail-related tourism across Sri Lanka.

In collaboration with the Central Cultural Fund (CCF), the Railway Department is set to launch a development project that includes decorative lighting installations around the iconic bridge, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty after dark. The project is scheduled to begin in August.

“Once the development is complete and the site’s appeal is further enhanced, we intend to introduce a small entry fee — a nominal amount for local visitors,” Jayasundara said, speaking to Ada Derana.

Alongside the Ella project, the department is also developing a unique tourism venture near the Nanu Oya Railway Station — a boutique accommodation concept using refurbished train carriages.

“This project has been designed to offer tourists a novel and memorable experience. We aim to complete the development and open it to the public by early August,” he added.