The government plans to begin a phased rollout of a Metro Electric Railway system from 2027, in what officials describe as one of the country’s most significant public transport modernisation projects.
Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways Dr. Prasanna Gunasena said the programme follows directions from the President and will combine the restoration of existing railway infrastructure with the development of a new electrified commuter rail network.
The larger transformation, however, lies in the planned Metro Electric Railway network.
First Metro Routes Identified
Under the Colombo suburban rail modernisation programme, electrified commuter train services are expected to be introduced from 2027 in phases, beginning with the Fort–Ragama, Fort–Panadura and Maradana–Makumbura corridors.
Transport officials say these routes will eventually become part of a wider suburban rail loop around Colombo, providing a faster and more reliable alternative to road transport for thousands of daily commuters.
The project will introduce standard-gauge railway infrastructure and new electric trains designed to operate frequent short-distance services.
Officials acknowledge that a full metro-style railway system cannot be built immediately due to the scale and cost involved. Instead, the network will be developed in stages over the coming years.
According to the ministry, implementation is expected to begin next year, with the first phase targeted for completion within three to four years. The broader Metro Electric Railway network is projected to take between 10 and 15 years to fully complete.
Authorities view the project as a long-term investment in urban mobility, aimed at reducing traffic congestion, improving connectivity and modernising the country’s public transport system.
Developments Government Decisions Ministerial Update
Last modified: June 9, 2026
