By Upeksha Uduwerella –
A passenger train derailed on the railway tracks between the Wanawasala and Hunupitiya stations early Saturday morning (May 16), causing severe disruptions to the lower commuter line and leaving at least twelve passengers injured. According to railway authorities and eyewitness accounts, the impact of the derailment caused one of the train’s passenger carriages to completely overturn off the tracks.
The train had commenced its journey from the Polgahawela station at 3:25 a.m. and was operating on its regular regular route southbound toward the Kalutara South (Dakuna Kalutara) destination. The incident occurred unexpectedly during the morning commute, triggering immediate panic among the passengers on board.
In the chaos of the derailment, one passenger was reportedly thrown out of the carriage due to the force of the impact. Police officials conducting preliminary on-site inquiries stated they believe this particular individual became trapped between the heavy structure of the overturned carriage and a motor vehicle that had been parked in close proximity to the railway tracks.
Emergency medical services and residents rushed to the scene immediately following the accident. All twelve injured passengers, who were reported to have sustained various minor injuries, cuts, and bruises, were initially transported to nearby private hospitals for immediate first-aid and medical evaluation. Following preliminary treatment, 10 passengers were transferred to the Colombo National Hospital for further clinical care.
The Railway Department has verified that the physical damage caused by the derailment has completely blocked the lower railway line, halting all traffic on that specific section. However, to minimize delays for commuters, officials confirmed that the upper track and the third track remain undamaged and are operating normally. Senior railway engineers and technical teams have already arrived at the location to initiate salvage operations and clear the tracks. A high-level official investigation has been launched to determine the precise technical cause behind the derailment.
