Station Masters to launch immediate strike over unresolved issues

Colombo, October 30 (Daily Mirror) - Following a discussion today to inform the Transport Minister, the Sri Lanka Railways Station Masters' Union (SLRSMU) has decided to launch their trade union action in response to unresolved administrative issues within the Railways Department.

Addressing the media, SLRSMU President Sumedha Somarathne said the decision was made following a meeting with the union's executive committee.

"During the strike, trains will run as per schedule, and passengers will be able to travel without tickets. Station Masters have refrained from issuing tickets, handling seat reservations, and transporting parcels. The strike will not affect train services, and trains are operating as normal," he said.

The SLRSMU informed the coordinating secretary who attended the meeting on behalf of the Minister but did not provide any solutions to their administrative issues, including the delayed promotions that occur every five years.

"We informed the relevant authorities to update the train timetable, as the train service is coming to a standstill day by day, with issues such as issuing season tickets for schoolchildren and employees, frequent train cancellations, and the increase in derailments," Somarathne stated.

The strike action will be launched with minimal inconvenience to commuters.

Somarathne also urged the President and Prime Minister to intervene in the issue and take action against government officials who have misused public funds.