The Sri Lanka Railway Department is currently experiencing a deficit of 180 locomotive drivers, revealed Railway General Manager H.M.K.W. Bandara. To mitigate this shortage and ensure uninterrupted passenger services, the department has initiated the recruitment of retired drivers, assigning them to passenger operations.
Thus far, 37 retired locomotive drivers have rejoined the workforce to alleviate the shortfall. General Manager Bandara emphasized ongoing efforts to recruit new drivers for long-term sustainability.
He underscored that the scarcity of locomotive drivers has impeded railway operations, necessitating proactive measures to address the staffing challenge.