[4] The Mannar line was built as part of a plan to create a rail link between Sri Lanka and India.

The Boat Mail was a major service on the line, allowing passengers to board a ferry to Rameshwaram in India.

The contract to reconstruct the 44 kilometres (27 mi) line between Medawachchiya Junction and Madhu was awarded to Ircon International, the Indian state-owned engineering and construction company.

[9] Ircon International has also been awarded the contract to reconstruct the 65 kilometres (40 mi) line between Madhu and Talaimannar.

The opening of the reconstructed line was attended by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and ministers Lakshman Kiriella and Rishad Bathiudeen.

The Mannar line is entirely single track, at 5 ft 6 in (1,676 mm) broad gauge,[14] both before the war and after reconstruction.