Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, officially launched the upgraded 128 km Maho-Omanthai railway line, a project supported by India with a financial aid of USD 91.27 million. Following this, the construction of a modern signalling system from Maho to Anuradhapura was also inaugurated, with India contributing USD 14.89 million in grant assistance for the project.
These inaugurations mark a key development in the ongoing India-Sri Lanka collaboration to modernize the country’s railway infrastructure. They serve as a significant step toward enhancing rail connectivity between the northern and southern regions of Sri Lanka, which will improve both passenger travel and cargo transport across the island.
Prime Minister Modi expressed India’s pride in supporting Sri Lanka’s progress and development. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he shared, “Together with President Dissanayake, I inaugurated the upgradation of the Maho-Omanthai railway track in Anuradhapura. We also launched the advanced signalling system project for the Maho-Anuradhapura section, which will enhance rail communication and safety.”
The Prime Minister also paid a visit to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple in Anuradhapura, where he offered his respects at this sacred Buddhist site.
This temple holds profound historical and cultural importance, symbolizing the deep ties between India and Sri Lanka.
In a post on his social media, PM Modi shared, “Had the honor of offering prayers at the revered Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura alongside President Dissanayake. It was an incredibly humbling experience to stand at one of the most significant Buddhist sites.”
He further noted, “This tree stands as a living emblem of peace, enlightenment, and spiritual continuity. May the wisdom of Lord Buddha continue to guide us all.”
The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi’s sacred Bodhi tree is believed to be a direct descendant of the tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodhgaya, India. According to tradition, Theri Sanghamitta, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka, brought a sapling from India’s Bodhi tree and planted it in Anuradhapura.