Railway Station Masters call off strike

The Railway Station Masters’ Association has decided to end the trade union action launched since 24 December following successful discussions with State Minister of Transport Dilum Amunugama. 

Station Masters’ Association Secretary Kasun Chamara said the union has decided to call off the strike following a discussion between officials of the Railway Station Masters’ Union and State Minister of Transport Dilum Amunugama yesterday.

The train strike which lasted for four days disrupted many services including freight. The Railway Department also incurred a heavy loss due to suspension of issuing train tickets.

After discussions with General Manager of Railways on Monday failed to reach a solution, the Railway Station Masters’ Union decided to intensify the trade union action effective immediately and withdraw transporting fuel to the airport, cement and flour.

The Station Masters had a lengthy discussion with the State Minister of Transport on their problems. The union had made number of demands seeking solutions to problems including staff shortages and promotion shortcomings.

Railway Station Masters’ Association President Sumedha Somaratne stated that positive solutions have been found for their issues during the meeting with the State Minister. Meanwhile a discussion was held to launch a joint train and SLTB bus service.