This was the first time the CGR purchased power sets for long distance run. These power sets have specially been designed for long distance service with all facilities. The cost of a single power set is Rs.400 million, said Sri Lanka Railways Chairman P.P. Wijesekera, Daily News reported.

The new power sets have been purchased under the Indian Credit Line facility. The first line of the power sets will arrive in the country in May. The power sets were earlier used only for short distance journeys. Following several successful trials, power sets for long distance travel on the Southern rail track was decided upon, he added.

The project will be implemented in three stages. Under the first stage, renovation of the track between Galle and Matara is being carried out by the Railway Department. Phase two of the project from Galle to Kalutara-South will be carried out while the rail track between Kalutara South to Colombo will be improved as the third phase, the Chairman further said.