## India Launches $5M Restoration of Northern Railway Line 📈

India has officially commenced restoration work on Sri Lanka’s Northern Railway Line following severe damage from Cyclone Ditwah. The project is funded by an Indian grant of US$ 5 million, part of a larger US$ 450 million reconstruction package. • Key Infrastructure Restoration: The project targets three critical sections: Maho–Omanthai, Omanthai–Jaffna, and Medawachchiya–Mannar. These segments are vital for logistics, essential services, and passenger movement across the Northern and North Central provinces. • Fast-Tracked Timeline: Launched on January 11, the project aims to restore regular train frequencies by April 2026 (ahead of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year), with total completion targeted for May 2026. • Execution & Employment: Work is being handled by IRCON International Limited. The accelerated schedule involves large-scale deployment of manpower and specialized machinery, supporting local employment and infrastructure recovery. • Strategic Partnership: India’s cumulative assistance to Sri Lanka’s railway sector now totals approximately US$ 1.2 billion, covering 500km of tracks and signaling systems to enhance national connectivity.