Former Cabinet Minister Bandula Gunawardena says he will not contest the upcoming Parliamentary Election and, instead, is expecting to get involved in non-political activities such as producing a movie.

The former Parliamentarian said that during his 20-year political career, he had served as a Parliamentarian representing the Homagama Division, and has also served in the capacity of Cabinet Spokesman, State Minister, and Minister.

Stating that through these positions he has served the public to the best of his capacity, Bandula Gunawardena said he is also content for having done his best for the Homagama Division as well. 

Alongside his interest in producing a movie, the former minister said he also intends to pursue a Doctoral study in the coming years, due to which he will not contest the General Election. (Newswire)

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The government has introduced a new policy permitting ex-Parliamentarians to own two firearms for their personal safety, Cabinet Spokesman Minister Bandula Gunawardena said. 

Addressing the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, Minister Gunawardena said accordingly, they will be allowed to own pistols. 

The Cabinet Spokesman said the new policy was introduced taking into consideration the past unrest in Sri Lanka in 2022.

“We saw that a Parliamentarian was tortured and killed during the ‘Aragalaya. The houses of 72 MPs were set on fire. The President’s House was also attacked. A similar incident was reported in an escalated manner in Bangladesh recently. We cannot assure that a similar incident might not reoccur in Sri Lanka,” he said. 

Minister Gunawardena said that as such, the government has decided to allow MPs to obtain two firearms for a cost after their tenure as Parliamentarians ends to ensure their safety.

He added that the MPs will be allowed to keep the firearms at their residences after their Parliamentary tenure ends.

Revealing that several Parliamentarians are already in possession of firearms, Minister Guanwardena said that however, he does not possess a firearm. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP and Minister Bandula Gunawardena has extended his support for President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who he says has proven to be a leader who will not drag the country into a crisis.

Addressing a public meeting in Homagama on Monday, Minister Bandula Gunawardena called on everyone willing to join hands to extend their support to President Ranil Wickremesinghe in the upcoming Presidential Election.

Minister Gunawardena further said when the country was facing constitutional and economic crises, President Wickremesinghe stepped forward and took charge, following which several necessary legislations were introduced to revive the economy.

“To prevent the country from going bankrupt once again in the future, we must all continue this program together. There is no other solution. If we abandon the International Monetary Fund, we cannot prepare a budget,” he warned.

Minister Bandula Gunawardena said, therefore, it was decided that Ranil Wickramasinghe, who has brought the country to where it is today should be given the Presidency.

“He has no offspring to protect. He only has to play the role of uplifting the country. Based on this, we declared that we would support him regardless of party differences,” he said. 

SLPP MP Bandula Gunawardena said the decision was conveyed at the party meeting held yesterday, but the SLPP Politburo was of the view of fielding a candidate from the party for the Presidential Election. 

He revealed that 11 SLPP members, including himself, Ministers Prasanna Ranatunga, Kanchana Wijesekera, and Ramesh Pathirane, and former Minister S.B. Dissanayake had requested the SLPP not to do so.

“We requested all to work together to raise the country once again and to extend support to Ranil Wickramasinghe, who is running independently as the common candidate, on this occasion only.

“Eleven of us voted against the SLPP’s proposal, while the other group did not express any opposition. Another proposal was also submitted that all members who are not in favour of that proposal and support any other presidential candidate, regardless of rank, will be subject to disciplinary action. We did not oppose that proposal. All were in favour of the disciplinary inquiry proposal,” he said. 

Stating that it was his duty to inform this decision to the public, Minister Bandula Gunawardena said that as it was impossible to support a candidate who would allow the country and the people to fall into a crisis again, he has decided to extend his support for Ranil Wickramasinghe, who has the strength and vision to rebuild the country. (Newswire)

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The Sri Lankan government is unable to accommodate additional financial allocations to resolve issues concerning state sector salaries and other discrepancies across government bodies, Minister of Transport, Highways and Mass Media Bandula Gunawardena said. 

He said that political parties aspiring to come to state power will be obliged to adhere to the agreements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). 

Minister Bandula Gunawardena said parties aspiring to assume state power must inform the country if they are abiding by the agreements outlined by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who is also the Finance Minister. 

He further emphasized that there is no alternative for the future budget of the country, even if pursued without expecting international cooperation.

The Minister made these comments addressing a media briefing held at the Presidential Media Centre on Monday. 

The following are three key factors outlined in Minister Bandula Gunawardena’s statement;

• State salary issues –

Several political parties have initiated protests and strikes. Consequently, a committee comprising the Secretary to the President and the Secretary of the Ministry of Finance has been established to address issues concerning salaries, including discrepancies across government departments, corporations, and statutory bodies. 

The cabinet has also made a decision to propose solutions and incorporate them into the 2025 budget document.

• Budget 2024 – 

Despite the government’s various needs, the 2024 budget cannot accommodate additional financial allocations. It is essential to note that over the past four decades, there has not been sufficient income to cover the day-to-day operational expenses of the government.

In 2023, the Inland Revenue Department collected Rs.1550 billion by raising all tax types, while the Department of Customs garnered Rs.923 billion from import and export duties. The Excise Department gathered Rs.169 billion, and the Department of Motor Traffic obtained Rs.20 billion. Non-tax income amounted to Rs.219 billion. Additionally, Rs.16 billion came as aid and Rs.304 billion through various deposits, summing up to a total income of Rs.3201 billion.

However, these revenues must cover the day-to-day operations of the government, including salaries, pensions, and subsidies like “Samurdhi” and “Aswasuma”, as well as loan interest. Consequently, a total expenditure of Rs.4.3 trillion was incurred solely in 2023.

• The IMF deal – 

In drafting the budget for the upcoming year 2025, irrespective of the ruling government, it is imperative to address the loan agreements established with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) until 2028. 

By 2025, it is anticipated that the external foreign resource gap will not adequately cover international transactions. Past trends suggest a projected need of USD 5018 billion for this purpose.

Any government formulating the forthcoming budget must secure this funding. To facilitate this, the IMF has consented to provide USD 663 million under the extended credit facility. The IMF has consented to furnish USD 700 million to address the budget deficit. 

Additionally, the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have pledged USD 400 million and USD 300 million, respectively. It is anticipated that there will be a loan relief of USD 3655 million through the restructuring of foreign debt. (Newswire)

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Any alteration, even as small as one-tenth, to the ongoing government program spearheaded by President Ranil Wickremesinghe could pose a significant threat to the stability of Sri Lanka once more, Minister of Transport, Highways and Mass Media, Dr. Bandula Gunawardena warned.

Despite numerous reports indicating an increase in poverty among the country’s most vulnerable, the minister highlighted that this trend is not surprising in a nation where economic growth plummeted to -08% and faced bankruptcy. 

Minister Gunawardena further emphasized the urgent need to establish social protection in the nation.

He made these remarks during a press conference held at the Presidential Media Centre on Wednesday (Apr 03).

The minister announced that the Road Development Authority (RDA) has settled outstanding bills totalling Rs. 361 billion on behalf of contractors. He also mentioned that once agreements are signed with bilateral creditors, all the existing development projects will kick off.

“President Ranil Wickremesinghe boldly took on the challenge of rebuilding the country following a downturn last season, leading to an agreement for an extended credit facility with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Discussions on debt restructuring were also initiated. As a result, the country has adopted a conciliatory economic strategy this year, and it is essential for everyone to acknowledge and adapt to this situation, irrespective of their preferences.

“During that period, the exchange rate for one dollar was nearly Rs.400.00. However, presently, the value of the dollar has dropped to Rs. 300.00. Consequently, the cost of rupees for all imported goods has decreased.

“Furthermore, the gross official reserves, which had previously depleted to zero, have now surged to USD 4.5 billion. This increase is accompanied by a surplus in the current account of the balance of payments, contributing to the strengthening of the rupee. Consequently, prices of numerous goods have experienced a decline. Notably, Sri Lanka has achieved a surplus in the budget primary balance for the first time in its post-independence history,” he said.

Minister Gunawardena pointed out that the interest rate has notably decreased, while inflation, previously at 70%, has dropped to a mere 6%. “Consequently, the rate of price increase for goods has also slowed down significantly. These developments indicate a substantial recovery from the previous unfavourable and challenging situation.

“Furthermore, regardless of the governing party, the newly enacted Central Bank Act prohibits the minting of currency going forward. This measure has facilitated the maintenance of financial management discipline.

“An important point to highlight is that any deviation, even by a minor fraction, from the ongoing government program under the leadership of President Ranil Wickremesinghe aimed at national development could pose a severe risk, potentially jeopardizing the country’s future prospects,” he warned.

The Minister went on to note that several reports indicate a rise in poverty among the most vulnerable citizens in the country. “This trend is not surprising given the negative economic growth and subsequent bankruptcy experienced. To alleviate poverty, it’s imperative for the country’s income to increase and the economy to flourish across agriculture, industry, and services sectors. Historically, economic growth correlates with a reduction in poverty and an increase in per capita income.

“Under the current program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), particular attention has been directed toward assisting the economically vulnerable, especially those affected by the recent crisis. Notably, the “Aswasuma” program has been introduced, with a budget three times larger than that allocated for prosperity, aimed at providing strong social security to combat poverty effectively.

“The Road Development Authority (RDA) has settled outstanding bills totalling Rs. 361 billion on behalf of contractors. Going forward, new contract bills must be cleared within three months of submission. To ensure financial discipline, agreements have been reached with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). By June, final agreements will be signed with bilateral creditors, paving the way for the resumption of all halted development projects,” he added. (NewsWire)

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The final phase of the construction of the flyover at the Kohuwala junction will be completed within the next three months, Minister of Highways Bandula Guanwardena said. 

Speaking to reporters, Minister Gunawardena said that the construction work for the said flyover, which is 300 metres long and 9.2 metres wide, resumed on Wednesday.

The minister explained that construction work which began in 2021 was initially halted due to the Coronavirus pandemic, and was later suspended due to the economic crisis. 

Stating that the project was commenced with a Euro 50 million loan from the Hungarian Government for the two flyover projects in Kohuwala and Gatambe, he said it was suspended after the loans were not repaid.

As Sri Lanka is currently undergoing debt restructuring due to its economic crisis, the Hungarian Government has suspended the disbursement of funds in this regard, until a loan repayment agreement is signed under the restructured debt, he said. 

Minister Guanwardena further said that as 98% of the construction has been completed for the flyover, the Hungarian Government had agreed for local contractors to fund the remaining construction, with the Hungarian Government settling the payments once the loan agreement under the restructured debt is signed. 

He added that accordingly, with local contractors agreeing to fund the remaining construction of the flyover at the Kohuwala junction, the construction resumed yesterday and it is expected to be completed in three months. 

Minister of Highways Bandula Gunawardena made the remarks while undertaking an inspection tour of the flyover at the Kohuwala Junction yesterday. (NewsWire)

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Plans are underway to complete construction of the third phase of the Central Expressway from Pothuhera to Galagedara in two years, Minister of Transport and Highways Bandula Gunawardana announced. 

Minister Gunawardena further said that the government plans to complete the first phase of the construction from Pothuhera to Rambukkana in 2025 and the entire project by July 2026. 

The minister further said that following the completion of the construction, the public will be able to use the Central Expressway from Mirigama to Rambukkana.

He made the remarks while engaging in a progress review meeting of the project held at the project office located in the Lihinigiriya area of Pothuhera.

The third phase of the Central Expressway is 32.45 km in distance and consists of four interchanges; Pothuhera, Polgahawela, Rambukkana and Galagedara. 

Construction concerning the related interchange of the Central Expressway is currently underway. (NewsWire)

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Around 200 electric buses with modern facilities will be put into operation in the future, Minister of Transportation Bandula Gunawardena said today. 

Addressing the Parliament, the minister said electric buses with modern facilities would be initially deployed in the Western Province.

He further said that as the first phase of the programme, 50 electric buses with modern facilities will be deployed before the April New Year festival. 

The Minister of Transport also revealed that in the future, it will be mandatory for all buses imported by the private and public sectors to be equipped with modern technical features, such as CCTV cameras.

The necessary measures in this regard are being taken together with the Department of Motor Traffic, he added.

Minister Bandula Gunawardena also said that steps are being taken to provide e-ticketing systems for the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) and Sri Lanka Railways in the next 06 months. 

He made the remarks while responding to a question raised by MP Niroshan Perera in Parliament today. (NewsWire)

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The construction of the first-ever railway underpass to conserve an elephant corridor commenced in the Getadiwula area in Galgamuwa today (Mar 01).

The project was launched under the auspices of Minister of Transportation Bandula Gunawardena. 

It is reported that the government had decided to commence the construction of underpasses due to the high number of elephant deaths as a result of colliding with trains. 

Accordingly, the government is set to identify elephant corridors along railway tracks to build the underpass. (NewsWire)

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The services of the Department of Motor Traffic will be digitized from March 04, 2024, Minister of Transportation Bandula Gunawardena said. 

Addressing the media today, the minister said following the digitization process the public will not be required to visit the Department of Motor Traffic.

He further said that a mobile application will be introduced for this purpose, while the public can also book their appointments via the Department of Motor Traffic’s official website.

“As part of the first phase of the digitization programme, the mobile application and website will be used to reserve a date and time to obtain services,” the minister said. 

Meanwhile, Commissioner General of the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) Nishantha Anuruddha Weerasinghe it was mandatory for the public to reserve a time and date to obtain the services of the department from March 04 onwards.

He further said that reservations can be made by contacting the hotline 2 117 116 or by visiting the website www.dmtappointments.dmt.gov.lk (NewsWire)

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The government expects the Sri Lankan Rupee to strengthen against the US Dollar, dropping to as low as Rs. 280, Cabinet Spokesman Minister Bandula Gunawardena said. 

Addressing the post-Cabinet media briefing today, Minister Gunawardena said that going forward it is expected for the Rupee to reach the Rs. 280 range against the US Dollar soon. 

“During the foreign exchange crisis and shortage of fuel, we saw the US Dollar being sold for over Rs. 400. However, now it has dropped to Rs. 314. It is expected to drop further, at least to Rs. 280,” he said. 

Minister Bandula Gunawardana further said that land prices will also plummet from the current highs, pointing out that rents have already fallen sharply. (NewsWire)

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Cabinet Spokesman Minister Bandula Gunawardena today refuted reports that a proposal had been presented to the Cabinet of Ministers on cultivating cannabis for export purposes. 

Addressing the post-Cabinet media briefing, Minister Gunwardena informed that no such proposal had been put before the Cabinet of Ministers. 

The minister’s remarks come in response to questions raised by the media over the statement made by State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage in this regard.

State Minister Diana Gamage had yesterday claimed that the Cabinet had granted approval to cultivate cannabis for export purposes. 

Refuting the statement, Cabinet Spokesman Minister Bandula Gunawardena said as State Minister Diana Gamage is not a Cabinet Minister he cannot take responsibility for the statement. (NewsWire)

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The Government will shortly introduce new regulations for expressways, including a minimum speed, Minister of Transport Bandula Gunawardena said today. 

Addressing the post-Cabinet media briefing, Minister Gunawardena said that the new regulations will be announced via a Gazette notification expected to be issued within the next two weeks. 

He further said that a specialist committee will be appointed and the Gazette will be issued based on their recommendations.

Stating that a discussion was recently held under the Transport Ministry Secretary on road accidents on highways, the minister said various parties, including the Police and road engineers, had participated in the discussion.

“The discussion found that many accidents reported on the Katunayake – Colombo highway are due to excess speeding. It was also pointed out that accidents were caused by vehicles attempting to overtake vehicles that are travelling at a lower speed on the highway,” he said. 

The minister also revealed that failing to wear seat belts and other safety gear while travelling, driving under the influence, and failing to follow road rules were among other reasons identified as causes for accidents on highways in Sri Lanka.

Refuting claims of less lighting on the expressway, Minister Gunawardena said that only reflective lights are used on the highways, similar to that used the world over, for the convenience of the driver. 

The measures come in light of several accidents being reported on expressways, especially the recent accident in which former State Minister Sanath Nishantha was killed. 

The accident in the Kerwalapitiya area on the Colombo- Katunayake expressway was found to have been caused by excessive speeding. 

Soon after the former State Minister’s accident, another accident was also reported on the same expressway in which a foreign tourist was killed. (NewsWire)

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All stalled development projects are set to commence in February, Minister of Transport, Highways, and Mass Media Dr. Bandula Gunawardena said. 

Addressing the media on Friday (Jan 19), Minister Gunawardena said the development projects will commence following the finalization of agreements related to the debt restructuring and ongoing discussions with foreign creditors of Sri Lanka. 

The minister highlighted that Rs. 150 million has been allocated to the District Development Committees under the relevant chairmen for road development. Additionally, Rs. 50 million has been earmarked through the Ministry of Rural Affairs for the development of small roads.

Dr. Bandula Gunawardena further addressed the financial landscape, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of income and expenditure in the challenging year ahead. 

“In 2022, the government’s total tax revenue amounted to Rs. 1,751 billion, with 72% (Rs. 1265 billion) allocated to government employee salaries, pensions, and Rs. 506 billion spent on Samurdhi allowance and support for the less privileged. The minister highlighted the challenge of balancing expenses, including interest payments on loans (Rs. 1,065 billion) and capital expenditure (Rs. 715 billion),” he said.

Minister Gunawardena reported the earnings of various government departments, such as the Inland Revenue Department (Rs. 1,550 billion), Customs Department (Rs. 922 billion), Excise Department (Rs. 169 billion), and Motor Vehicle Commissioner Department (Rs. 20 billion).

“Despite an increase in income from the public and various strategies in 2023 (Rs. 3,201 billion), expenses outpaced revenue, resulting in a deficit.

“In 2023, the government spent Rs. 2,160 billion on subsidies, Rs. 2,263 billion on interest payments, and a total of Rs. 4,394 billion to run the government, while its income for the year was Rs. 3,201 billion. The government borrowed extensively, with Rs. 10,091 billion borrowed domestically through Treasury Bills and Treasury Bonds,” he said.

Looking ahead to 2024, the minister assured that development schemes are slated to begin in February after the restructuring of debt and finalizing agreements with creditors. 

“Notably, a 60 million US dollar loan from the World Bank and financial assistance from the Samurdi Fund will be utilized for road repairs. Despite financial challenges, significant allocations have been made for the Chairmen of District Development Committees, with Rs. 150 million for road development and an additional Rs. 50 million for the development of small roads. The restructuring of foreign debt has reached its final stages, paving the way for the resumption of paused development projects,” he added. (NewsWire)

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The Ministry of Transportation is planning on preparing a proper system for the legal registration of high-capacity (engine capacity above 450cc) motorcycles that are unregistered in Sri Lanka.

Minister of Transportation and Highways Bandula Gunawardena has instructed the relevant authorities to provide a report in the next few weeks with recommendations for the registration system.

Per previous requests made by the owners of high-capacity motorcycles in Sri Lanka, in coordination with the former minister Rohitha Abeygunawardena, such high-capacity motorcycles had been brought to Sri Lanka through various methods and were not registered.

Minister Gunawardena further said that a committee consisting of senior officials from the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Finance, Attorney General’s Department, Motor Transport Commissioner Department, Police Department and other institutions has been appointed to make recommendations on the registration process.

He further requested the committee make the necessary recommendations for the registration of 5,000 such motorcycles currently in the country, to be registered under strict legal conditions after charging them the necessary taxes. (NewsWire)

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Sri Lanka’s expressways will not be sold or leased out, Minister of Transport and Highways Bandula Gunawardena announced in Parliament today.

Minister Bandula Gunawardena assured that those engaged in the expressway sector will not lose their jobs.

He further said that legal action will be initiated if the country’s income is affected by the token strike launched by the All Island Expressways Union today.

The Minister revealed that complaints have been filed with the Police on the government’s loss of income and alleged threats by the expressway employees.

“Apart from engaging in their strike action, the expressway employees have made all equipment malfunction and have also taken possession of some necessary equipment. These are government property. We have requested them not to act so and to return the property and provide the necessary support to the security forces,” he said. 

Minister Bandula Gunawardena pointed out that it was a serious issue for the government to incur a loss like this at a time when the nation was facing a crisis. 

His comments come after the All Island Expressways Union launched a one-day token strike based on three key demands today.

Following the strike, the security forces were deployed at expressways across the country for security purposes and to carry out operations at toll gates. (NewsWire)

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The existing national debt stands at approximately US$ 36 billion, with only 37% of this debt slated for payment within the next 5 to 6 years, and 51% of the loan amount scheduled for repayment between 6 and 20 years, Minister Bandula Gunawardena said. 

Minister Bandula Gunawardena further said the remaining 12% is earmarked for settlement after the 20-year mark. 

“It’s crucial to acknowledge that irrespective of the governing party, the country is obligated to service this debt until the year 2048. Failure to meet these financial commitments would result in a governing party’s ability to administer the government for only a two-week duration,” he warned.

Minister Bandula Gunawardena pointed out that avoiding loans from global entities and defaulting on payments poses a critical challenge, as the current international system relies on this financial mechanism. 

“In addition, the refusal of other nations to accept letters of credit issued by Sri Lanka would hinder the importation of vital commodities such as petroleum, gas, medicines and essential food items. Consequently, political solutions prove ineffective in addressing this predicament; instead, the imperative lies in implementing an economic solution to navigate through these challenges,” he said.

The Minister revealed that a strategic approach involves focusing on four key aspects to navigate the country out of the current economic crisis. 

“Firstly, there is an imperative to enhance government revenue. Secondly, it is essential to curtail both recurrent and capital expenditures of the government. The third element involves boosting foreign exchange inflows while concurrently minimizing foreign exchange outflows. Lastly, the goal is to establish a current account surplus in the balance of payments. The budget presented by the President for the year 2024 is aligned with these crucial objectives,” he said.

The Minister of Transport, Highways and Mass Media reiterated that addressing the prevailing crisis in the country requires an exclusive focus on economic solutions and highlighting the inadequacy of political measures in this context.

He highlighted that once the International Monetary Fund (IMF) issues the second loan instalment, it will pave the way for the resumption of all stalled development projects.

Characterizing this year’s budget, presented by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, as historic, radical and revolutionary, he highlighted its significance as the first budget unveiled following the official declaration of the country’s bankruptcy last year. 

The Minister underscored that the state budget’s current account deficit and the international balance of payments current account deficit were pivotal factors leading to the country’s financial crisis. He further revealed that the failure to meet International Monetary Fund criteria during the respective periods was a contributing factor to the current crisis.

“President Ranil Wickremesinghe assumed responsibility amid financial management challenges. A resolution was achieved through debt restructuring, involving consultations with leaders from creditor states, including India, China and Japan.

“Following the budget, the International Monetary Fund is expected to issue the second loan tranche. Successful refinancing of the debt would provide ample resources to execute all the proposals outlined in the budget. Subsequently, the revival of all stalled development projects becomes feasible.

“Everyone must bear in mind that the anticipated increase in government employees’ salaries, as per the budget, is contingent upon the tax revenues collected by the government from the public,” he added.

Minister of Transport, Highways and Mass Media, Bandula Gunawardena revealed this information during a Media briefing held at the Presidential Media Centre on Wednesday (15). (NewsWire)

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Opposition Leader MP Sajith Premadasa today questioned the summoning of Neth FM journalists before the Parliament Privileges Committee over allegations raised by Minister of Transport, Highways, and Mass Media Bandula Gunawardena. 

A complaint has been filed by the Minister, accusing that his Parliamentary privileges have been violated due to an alleged false news report that had been published by Neth Fm and several other local media. 

Accordingly, Neth FM journalists have been summoned before the Parliament Privileges Committee today for an inquiry into the matter. 

Condemning the move, MP Premadasa told Parliament that it was a breach of media freedom.

He further called on the Prime Minister to intervene and prevent such action being taken against journalists. 

Commenting on Minister Bandula Gunawardena’s complaint, Neth FM has responded stating that the views shared during the broadcast was that of a trade union leader and are not that of the media institution or its journalists. (NewsWire)

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Sri Lanka’s Transport Minister Bandula Gunawardena along with senior Railway officials expressed condolences over the death of a youth forced to travel on the roof of an overcrowded train due to a railway strike today. 

Cabinet Spokesman Bandula Gunawardena and the senior Railway officials expressed their condolences prior to commencing the Weekly Cabinet Press Briefing held in Colombo. 

Addressing the Cabinet Press Briefing today, the Minister said that 84 railway employees engaged in the strike must take responsibility for the youth’s death. 

The 20-year-old youth who had travelled on the roof of a train plying from Kandy to Colombo had died after falling over due to knocking onto the ceiling of the Horape Railway Station this morning. 

At least 20 train services were cancelled due to a strike launched by the Sri Lanka Locomotive Operating Engineers Union resulting in overcrowding of operating trains.

Commenting on the strike, Transport Minister Bandula Gunawardena further said that he will request the President within the day to declare the Railway Services as an essential service from midnight today. 

The minister added that a Gazette notification in this regard will also be issued accordingly. (NewsWire)

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The government has permitted investors to purchase 200 electric buses for operation in the Western Province, Minister of Transport, Highways and Mass Media Bandula Gunawardena said.

The minister said for this project, Expression of Interest has been called and it will be implemented as a domestic and foreign joint venture. 

“The investors have been allowed to establish charging points. Investors would be allowed to operate the project to recover the invested capital. Thereafter, within a certain period, the ownership of the buses will be acquired by the government. Any country in the world including China and Korea could apply for this project. This is an investment opportunity,” he said, providing further details.

Minister Bandula Gunawardena also said that this program will be implemented in accordance with the world agreement where all public transportation worldwide will be free from fossil fuels by 2030.

According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), Minister Bandula Gunawardena made the remarks during a media briefing held at the Presidential Media Centre yesterday (Spe 04). 

The full statement of Minister Bandula Gunawardena;

“Investors have been allowed to import 200 electric buses for the Western Province. For this project, Expression of Interest has been called. It will be implemented as a domestic and foreign joint venture. Also, the investors have been allowed to establish charging points.

The investor would be allowed to operate the project to recover the invested capital. Thereafter, within a certain period, the ownership of the buses will be acquired by the government. Any country in the world including China and Korea could apply for this project. This is an investment opportunity.

There is a global consensus that all public transport in the world should reach zero emissions by 2030. Those involved in carbon trading are investing in this to protect the ecosystem. Electric buses bring great value to the environment. Various organizations in the world are paying a high price to protect this value.

Also, all government institutions should be digitized to prevent a decrease in income. A cabinet paper has been presented to replace the issuance of tickets with electronic cards. When you transact using advanced technology such as a card or QR system instead of cash, you could increase the income of each of these institutions by at least 50%.

Institutions such as the Inland Revenue Department, Customs, Excise Department, Railways, Sri Lanka Transport Board, etc. can be rebuilt through modern technology. Without it, the government cannot bear the burden. Many changes have been made to the railway system.

A shipment of rail tracks has been brought to the port after 4 years under the loan assistance of the Asian Development Bank. The railway line from Colombo to Panadura is in a state of dilapidation. Coastal railway tracks need to be replaced at least every 5 years. As a result of the dilapidated railway lines, the trains have to run at a reduced speed, causing delays for commuters who have to report for duty on time.

Therefore, the restoration work of the railway track from Colombo to Panadura will commence within the next few days. The northern railway line was temporarily closed in January to upgrade the tracks from Anuradhapura to Kankasanthurai. Further upgrades are scheduled on this northern track from Mahawa to Anuradhapura in January 2024. Once these upgrades are completed, trains on the northern track will be able to operate at a speed of 100km per hour from Colombo to Kankasanthurai.

A loan agreement is to be signed under Indian loan assistance for the modernization of the signalling system. A renovation process to increase the speed by removing the speed limits of the Kelanivalley railway line will commence from the first week of this month.

If a train carriage is imported from abroad, it costs Rs. 200 million. A Sri Lankan entrepreneur refurbishes a train carriage for Rs. 25 million. Accordingly, it is hoped that the existing railway carriages will be renovated through the upcoming budget.

Employees are impressed with our program. The trade unions are now supporting us. We also get their support in dealing with polluters. I appeal to the trade unions not to inconvenience passengers in order to achieve their demands. In the event there are issues that affect them, they could be discussed with the relevant officials where a solution could be found. (NewsWire)

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