General

The original train engine that was involved in the Peraliya disaster during the 2004 tsunami did not take part in this year's memorial run. Instead, the Railway Department used a different locomotive for the “Tsunami Train” journey to Matara today (26) to honor the 21st anniversary of the tragedy. The Railway Department explained that the original engine, which has been part of this memorial event in previous years, could not be used this time due to a technical issue. Officials reported that a problem with the axle was found this morning, which made it impossible to run the locomotive as planned.