India and Sri Lanka Strengthen Ties with Major Railway Projects Launch

A Historic Collaboration in Anuradhapura

In a significant event on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake inaugurated key railway projects in Anuradhapura, showcasing the strengthening infrastructure partnership between India and Sri Lanka.

During a formal ceremony at the Anuradhapura Railway Station, the leaders launched two pivotal initiatives: the upgraded Maho-Omanthai railway track and a new signalling system for the Maho-Anuradhapura line.

These projects, supported by Indian expertise, are anticipated to enhance connectivity and safety within the northern rail network.

A large crowd of enthusiastic locals gathered at the station to greet the leaders, many capturing the moment on their mobile devices as the two dignitaries arrived together.

The railway initiatives were carried out by IRCON International Limited, a Public Sector Undertaking under the Indian Ministry of Railways.

IRCON CMD Hari Mohan Gupta expressed, "Today marks a fortunate occasion as our Prime Minister and the President of Sri Lanka dedicate an upgraded railway project spanning 128 kilometres, which was previously in poor condition."

"This is a moment of great honor for both India and Sri Lanka," he added.

Earlier, both leaders visited the revered Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple to seek blessings.

This temple is a significant spiritual site, housing the sacred Bodhi tree, believed to have originated from a sapling brought from India by Theri Sanghamitta, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka.

As a gesture of goodwill, the chief priest tied a 'Raksha Sutra' (protective thread) around Prime Minister Modi's wrist during their visit.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized the symbolic nature of the visit, stating, "President Dissanayake and the Prime Minister will travel together to Anuradhapura, paying respects at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple, which is vital to the India-Sri Lanka Civilisational Partnership. The sapling brought by Theri Sanghamitta was planted in this temple's grounds."

Upon his arrival in Anuradhapura, PM Modi was greeted with a ceremonial Guard of Honour from the Sri Lankan Air Force.

Sharing a moment from the visit, Prime Minister Modi posted a photo with President Dissanayake on X, stating, "In Anuradhapura with my friend, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake."

The two leaders also engaged in extensive discussions in Colombo to bolster bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

Following their talks, Prime Minister Modi was awarded the Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushan, one of the highest civilian honors in the country, recognizing India's steadfast support and the Prime Minister's personal efforts to enhance bilateral relations.

The day concluded with the signing and exchange of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), as both leaders unveiled new India-supported initiatives in infrastructure, energy, and development.