India-Sri Lanka Ties Strengthen as Modi, Dissanayake Launch Key Railway Projects in Anuradhapura

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake collaboratively unveiled two India-assisted railway projects in Anuradhapura on Sunday, marking a milestone in bilateral infrastructure cooperation. The initiatives include upgrading the Maho-Omanthai railway track and installing an advanced signalling system on the Maho-Anuradhapura section, both funded by India to enhance connectivity and safety in Sri Lanka’s northern regions.

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Modi, in a social media post, highlighted the initiatives as part of India’s commitment to Sri Lanka’s development: “Proud to support Sri Lanka’s progress. These projects will boost connectivity and economic growth.”

Project Details:

• The Maho-Omanthai line (cost: $91.27 million) links Colombo to northern Sri Lanka, facilitating trade and transportation.
  
• The signalling system ($14.9 million grant) aims to modernize rail operations and reduce accident risks.

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Earlier, the leaders visited the Jaya Shri Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO-recognized site housing a sacred Bodhi tree believed to originate from India’s Bodhgaya. The tree, planted from a sapling brought by Emperor Ashoka’s daughter Sanghamitta, symbolizes centuries-old cultural ties between the two nations.