Sri Lanka to modernize transport with new fleet

Sri Lanka’s public transport sector is set to be modernized with the addition of 1,000 new buses, including low-floor and super-luxury models, to the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) fleet, according to Deputy Transport Minister Dr. Prasanna Gunasena.

Currently, both the private and state sectors operate passenger buses, with the private sector handling 50% of expressway buses and 60% of buses on normal routes.

The Deputy Minister stated that although SLTB is entitled to operate 40% of buses on normal routes, its current fleet is insufficient to meet the demand.

SLTB requires a total of 7,400 buses, but only around 5,000 are currently in operation.

A Cabinet paper will soon be presented for approval to import 1,000 buses, including 200 super-luxury models, through an open tender process.

Low-floor buses, the most expensive at Rs. 68 million each, will be introduced for city routes along with a park-and-ride system, allowing commuters to leave private vehicles at designated locations and use public transport to city centers.

To tackle revenue losses from malpractices, the new buses will be equipped with cashless payment systems.

Corruption and malpractices currently affect both private bus operators and SLTB, leading to financial losses.

Passengers will benefit from the convenience of low-floor buses, which make boarding and deboarding easier.

Ticket prices for low-floor buses will follow a cost-reflective pricing model, likely aligning with current air-conditioned bus fares.

Once Cabinet approval is granted, the buses are expected to be imported within 36 weeks.

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