A vigilant resident of Modara, Moratuwa, prevented a potential major accident on the coastal railway line this morning (05), after noticing significant damage to the track.
The damaged section was located along the coastal railway line in Modara, Moratuwa. Upon discovering the issue, Mr. Samantha Fernando acted swiftly and courageously to stop an oncoming train that was traveling on the same line at the time.
His quick thinking and brave intervention, despite the personal risk involved, have earned widespread praise.
Recounting the incident, Mr. Samantha Fernando said:
“I was at my son’s house. While I was there, an aunty who was waiting nearby called and told me the track was broken. I went over to check and soon heard the sound of a train horn. I rushed back, grabbed a dress of my daughter’s from my son’s house, ran to the railway track, stood in the middle, and signaled the train to stop. Thankfully, the train came to a halt. Then I informed the gentleman on board to check if the track was broken. After inspecting it, they contacted their team to begin repairs.”
As a result of the incident, the coastal road from Panadura to Moratuwa was temporarily closed this morning, and train services were delayed.
Railway workers were dispatched to the site and successfully repaired the damaged track. According to the railway control room, train services have now returned to normal operations following the restoration.
