Locomotive arrivals and departures are plentiful at Colombo Fort railway station between the 13th and 15th of December 2009. Plenty of clag and thrash with many classes of diesel locomotive represented.
The station staff, railway police, soldiers and most of all the train crews were the most friendly I ever encountered and for that I hope they accept my deepest thanks... this is in a country still on high alert after the war yet they still found it possible to accomodate my enthusiasm for their railways, its a shame we can't be as outgoing here in the UK at times towards our enthusiasts.
Sri Lankan Railways (SLR) has maintained a great service through difficult times and whilst not the high speed, clean and sanotised railway we know in the west, SLR holds its own and runs a good regular and frequent train service for its people quite with a respectavble level of efficiency. The line is worked by a dedicated and helpful workforce who always have a smile and a good word for you... as well as a cup of tea when they think you are looking too hot!!
Fort station has a large turnover of passengers with thousands passing thru at rush hour. The staff is clean efficent and well run .
If you miss British Rail days then on SLR you have come home as its operation and structures are so similar and whilst not space age the system works well and is coherent and functional... Enjoy!
