The Locomotive Operating Engineers’ Union is withdrawing goods and fuel trains from midnight today(23), operating from Mahawa to Trincomalee, Batticaloa, and Kankesanthurai.

Union General Secretary Chandana Wiyanduwa stated the action is due to elephant-train collisions causing severe disruption and damage to both the animals and trains. 

He stressed that drivers cannot control the collisions and should not be held responsible.

The union also noted that the night mail train is expected to be withdrawn from tomorrow(24). 

Wiyanduwa added that repeated pleas to authorities for action have not received a positive response.