Addressing the media, he said that rail tracks need to be replaced every five years, with coastal railway lines requiring even more frequent changes.

"The necessary funds for purchasing railway lines, compartments, and sleepers have been obtained through foreign loan facilities," he said adding that Sri Lanka hopes to discuss with the Indian government the possibility of obtaining 20 train engines at a concessionary price or as a donation, he said..

"The most recent loan was obtained from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to purchase 10,000 rail tracks for the railway service. The Northern Railway Line is being renovated under the Indian Credit Line facility.," Minister Gunawardana disclosed.