The Government is focusing on three key reforms to Sri Lanka’s bus transport sector, including a separate fare formula for long-distance buses, the introduction of a Cluster Bus Company System, and changes to bus service categories.
Transport, Highways and Urban Development Minister Bimal Rathnayake outlined the measures during a meeting of the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Transport, Highways and Urban Development in Parliament.
The Minister said a separate fare calculation formula will be introduced for long-distance bus services, noting that applying the same pricing model to both long- and short-distance routes is not equitable due to higher operating costs on longer journeys.
He also said the Government will introduce a Cluster Bus Company System, with a pilot project covering bus routes 177, 170 and 190 after receiving Cabinet approval.
The Minister further said the previous four bus service categories have been streamlined by removing the semi-luxury and super-luxury classifications, leaving only normal and luxury services. He added that a court case relating to the semi-luxury category remains pending.
Officials also told the committee that although fuel prices have fallen recently, other operating costs remain high, limiting the possibility of reducing bus fares at present. (Newswire)