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Getting off new train a deathtrap
Travelling from Colombo to Badulla in the newly imported Chinese train, especially in the air conditioned compartments is very comfortable. However, alighting poses serious problems to passengers. The distance between the compartments and the platform is extremely wide and the steps end up between the platform and the compartment, making it a virtual deathtrap to alighting passengers.
The old and the infirm are especially affected by this problem and a number of accidents have already been recorded.
A railway worker who did not wish to be identified, told the Sunday Times that those responsible for placing the purchase order for the trains, had neglected to inform the suppliers of platform levels in Sri Lanka, which led to the present problem.
He added a team of Chinese engineers conducting observations on how the new trains were functioning were still in the country and said it would be in everyone’s interests if these officers were made aware of this particular problem and their advice sought in finding a solution to the same.
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