A train halts at Ragama; Commuters charge that the driver was under the influence of alcohol

The train that set out at 6.35 p.m. yesterday from Colombo Fort heading for Rambukkana halted at the Ragama railway station. Several commuters on the train said that the train was stopped because the driver was under the influence of alcohol.

A spokesman from the control room said that the driver had fallen ill.

The police spokesman said that due to a complaint made by a commuter the train driver had been tested for blood alcohol levels.

It was later noted that the driver had fainted due to an increase in blood pressure and his diabetic condition flaring up.

The train was stationary for about 20 minutes, blocking the tracks causing delays for other trains.