News
On a track of care and concern
Residents of Delkanda join to keep motorists safe from passing trains at an unprotected railway crossing
At 6 a.m. every day, W.A Karunawathi takes her spot near the unprotected railway crossing down Edirisinghe Road in Delkanda. For six years, this compassionate human barrier has waited faithfully to alert motorists about the 6.15 a.m. locomotive —one of 14 daily trains—that crosses the busy road.
Karunawathi on duty. Pix by Nilan Maligaspe
“There are so many people at risk because of this unprotected crossing. I cannot simply wait and watch while accidents happen,” Karunawathi explained.Karunwathi, 64, is one of many residents down Edirisinghe Road who are on this track of care and concern. Residents, some of whom rush to the crossing in their diya reddas, have memorized the timings of these trains.
Sri Lanka Railways General Manager, B.A.P. Ariyaratne, said the work of such people is greatly appreciated. “We cannot protect 600 crossings overnight. It takes time. In the meantime, the public, other organisations and pradeshiya sabhas should step in to help us. This is a responsibility of society as a whole,” Mr Ariyaratne said.
Mr. Ariyaratne said motorists tend to be negligent of the warnings, and urged them to be more vigilant and compliant at protected and unprotected crossings.
This rail track has been unprotected for over six years after its employees were removed owing to what residents say was a salary dispute. The wiring for a crossing protection system has been in place for over a month, but the lighting has not been installed.
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