While commending the Government’s decision to use the railways to transport vegetables, the farmers’ unions are calling on authorities to co-ordinate the farming industry for a better and more efficient distribution network across the country. “Now the Government has taken a decision to transport vegetables and other crops using the railway lines. This is something we have been proposing for years and they have taken the decision after the horses have bolted,” All Ceylon Farmers’ Federation Convener Namal Karunaratne told The Morning. He said that the farmers were being cheated by traders and that the Government must address this issue through proper co- ordination of the farming industry, including the private sector. “There are four officials for each grama niladari division. Of the 1.4 million government employees, only 1.2 million are working; the remaining employees are at home by no fault of their own. There are many government departments and divisions that are currently idling with many vehicles and equipment that could be utilised. The private sector traders and sellers too have much to offer in this time of need. The Government must co-ordinate these resources and ensure the farmers are given a fair deal and are not victimised,” he said. Despite several attempts, the Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture refused to comment on the matter. – Skandha Gunasekara