Several trains running across many main train stations have been absent this morning while several postal trains scheduled for last night were also suspended.

The train strike by railway workers of several grades is due to the failure of authorities to resolve salary anomalies.

As a mark of protest, railway workers held a 48-hour strike last Thursday as well.

Although a strike is underway, a gazette extraordinary signed by the president's secretary has deemed railways as an essential service.

Meanwhile, the transport ministry says that it has been decided to recruit retired train drivers to face the situation.