India-assisted railway projects in Sri Lanka

Launch of India-Assisted Railway Projects in Sri Lanka

Published on April 7, 2025
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2 Min read time
India-assisted railway projects in Sri Lanka
Picture Credit: Mid-day

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On April 6, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made headlines once again—this time not in India, but in the beautiful island nation of Sri Lanka! During his three-day visit, PM Modi launched two India-assisted railway projects in Sri Lanka, strengthening the long-standing friendship between the two neighboring countries.

India-assisted railway projects in Sri Lanka
Picture Credit: Prokerala

What Were These Railway Projects?

The highlight of the visit was the joint inauguration of two major railway projects by PM Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in the historic city of Anuradhapura:

  • Refurbishment of the Maho-Omanthai Railway Line (128 km): This was modernized with Indian assistance of $91.27 million.
  • Launch of a Modern Signalling System from Maho to Anuradhapura: This project is supported by an Indian grant of $14.89 million.

Together, these India-assisted railway projects in Sri Lanka aim to improve north-south rail connectivity, making travel faster and more comfortable for both passengers and goods.

Why Are These Projects Important?

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), these projects are a “significant milestone” in the India-Sri Lanka development partnership. Here’s why they matter:

  • They boost trade and tourism.
  • They connect key cities, helping people travel easily.
  • They improve the transportation of goods, making businesses more efficient.

In short, these India-assisted railway projects in Sri Lanka are not just about trains—they’re about progress, friendship, and future opportunities.

A Spiritual Pause at a Sacred Place

PM Modi’s visit wasn’t only about technology and development. He also took time to visit the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple in Anuradhapura—a deeply spiritual site for Buddhists.

Did you know? The Bodhi tree at this temple is believed to have grown from a sapling of the original tree in Bodhgaya, India, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. That sapling was brought to Sri Lanka by Theri Sanghamitta, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka.

In his social media post, PM Modi said:
“Offered prayers at the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura… May the teachings of Lord Buddha always guide us.”

This spiritual visit highlights the deep civilizational ties between India and Sri Lanka.

A Message of Unity and Support

PM Modi’s message was loud and clear:
“India is proud to support Sri Lanka in various aspects of their development journey.”

These India-assisted railway projects in Sri Lanka are just one example of how India extends a helping hand to its neighbors in times of growth and need. It’s a true win-win!

A Track to the Future

By launching these India-assisted railway projects in Sri Lanka, PM Modi has not just flagged off trains—he has flagged off a new era of cooperation, development, and regional harmony. For readers, it’s an inspiring story about how countries can work together, share knowledge, and build a better future.

Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor

Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.

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