At Habarana, the construction of a new line to connect to Kurunegala has been proposed in June 2013 to cut short journey times between Colombo and Batticaloa-line destinations.

[5] In the 1950s, the route was upgraded to support 5 ft 6 in (1,676 mm) broad gauge operation, under the administration of then CGR General Manager B. D. Rampala.

Sharp curves and steep gradients were eased, as well as the change to heavier rails, to match the rest of the system.

[3] Sri Lanka Railways operates the Udaya Devi service on the Batticaloa line.

Railbus services allow SLR to meet local needs without stressing its limited rolling stock.