Accordingly the first phase of this project aims to rehabilitate the line from Anuradhapura to Vavuniya (49.4 km) and the second phase from Maho to Anuradhapura (66.4 km).

The main objective of the Sri Lanka Railways is to provide a safe, reliable and a punctual rail transport service for passenger and freight traffic. Improvement of railway tracks has been recognized by the government as a key requirement in fulfilling this objective.

The proposal made by Ministry of Internal Transport, to proceed with the rehabilitation works by procuring all materials locally including concrete sleepers whereas possible and with the labour of the Railway Dept. workers, was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.