India gives 168 million dollar aid to Sri Lanka for Railways

New Delhi, Aug 28 (UNI) India will provide 168 million dollar assistance to Sri Lanka under India Credit Line (ICL) for reconstruction of railways in the coastal region of the Island which was badly damaged by the Tsunami in 2005.

The reconstruction projects would however be carried out by the two subsidiaries of Indian Railways--IRCON and RITES, according to official sources.

IRCON will undertake laying of track and signalling system for the Sri Lankan railways coastal line.

The track would be suitable for trains to run at the speed of 160 km per hour.

RITES will provide 3 diesel locomotives and 16 sets of dieself multiple units (DMUs), supply machinery and set up a loco shed for maintenance of locomotives and carriage.

As per the agreement reached between the two countries last month, RITES would also train personnel of Sri Lankan Railways.

UNI KAS RL VC1845