Work on Sri Lanka’s first Metro Bus depot officially commenced today in Kadawatha, marking a major step in the country’s urban transport modernization drive.
The depot, located near the Lanka Transport Board (LTB) facility on the Kadawatha–Ganemulla main road, is being built at a cost of Rs. 102 million and is scheduled for completion by July 30, 2026.
The project is funded by the government under the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development.
“The government has taken many steps to make public transport efficient and to provide a standardized service. The Sri Lanka Transport Board is being reorganized to elevate its services. Recruitment and promotions are being carried out transparently, free from political influence. The SLTB, which was heading towards collapse, is being rebuilt under the current government, under new leadership and proper administration, minimizing corruption and irregularities. Therefore, we believe the SLTB can undergo a transformative change,” Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways Prasanna Gunasena said, presiding over the groundbreaking ceremony.
The Metro Bus service, currently operating as a pilot project with 10 buses, will expand in August with 122 buses deployed across six main routes.
Supporting infrastructure, such as bus stops, integrated payment systems, and depot facilities, is being developed to ensure long‑term sustainability.
Alongside the Kadawatha depot, new facilities are planned in Ratmalana and Thalawathugoda, with four Metro depots to be established across the Western Province. (Newswire)
