Union General Secretary Chandana Wiyanduwa said the decision comes in response to the increasing number of elephant–train collisions, which have caused significant disruption and damage to both wildlife and railway property. He emphasized that train drivers have no control over these incidents and should not be blamed for the resulting accidents.
The union further stated that the night mail train operating on the same routes is also expected to be withdrawn from tomorrow (24), citing similar safety concerns.
Officials have urged relevant authorities to put forward immediate measures to mitigate the ongoing threat to both elephants and railway operations.