What was the main use of railways developed in Ceylon after British control?

The development of railways in Ceylon, which is modern-day Sri Lanka, after British control primarily catered to agricultural export. The British recognized the strategic importance of Ceylon's agricultural products, especially tea, rubber, and coconut, in global markets. The railways provided a crucial infrastructure to facilitate the efficient transport of these goods from the plantations in the interior to the ports for export. This network allowed for the quick transfer of perishable items and helped integrate the island’s economy into the global market, thereby maximizing profits.

Transporting tourists, military transport, and material supply routes, while relevant in certain contexts, did not serve as the primary focus of the railway system established during this period. The emphasis was squarely on making agricultural export more viable, which was essential for both economic growth and the benefits to the British colonial administration.