The Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) is losing nearly Rs. 20 million each day due to fraudulent practices by bus conductors, Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake revealed at a public event.
Calling the losses a leakage of public funds, Rathnayake said not just buses, but the entire SLTB administration, including its human resources framework, has been destroyed.
Despite the crisis, the Minister firmly rejected speculation of privatization. “We will not sell SLTB. We will develop it,” he declared, promising sweeping reforms to restore accountability and efficiency.
Rathnayake warned that officials and employees unwilling to adapt to new standards would be removed. He urged the drafting of new regulations if necessary and pledged decisive action against corruption.
“Those who don’t change will be removed,” he warned. (Newswire)