Realities of Kelani Valley Railway

Priyal de Silva, a retired General Manager of Railways and Past President, Institute of Engineers, who had also been the Chief Engineer Way and Works Department, has expressed his expert opinion on developing the Kelani Valley railway. His father L.S.de Silva too was the Chief Engineer, Way and Works Department.

In his article under reference, he, as I understand, recommends an elevated railway line up to Homagama, a distance of 23km. I believe this section is also covered in the Japanese aided rail track contract up to Malabe, which has been abruptly terminated by the government, on the advice of those who have no knowledge of the subject. The government should have consulted the Institution of Engineers of Sri Lanka on the issue.

Sri Lankans professional institutions have been set up not only to safeguard the interests of their members and the profession but also to assist the government with their professional knowledge. Regrettably, the government does not seem to know why these institutes have been established; it does not care to make use of them to achieve the country’s development goals. There are some professionals who would subjugate their professional integrity to their personal interests. The government had better not seek their advice.

G. A.D.SIRIMAL

Boralesgamuwa