More buses, trains from tomorrow to facilitate returnees: Dilum

Public transport would be enhanced to facilitate those who will return from their home towns after celebrating the New Year from tomorrow (15), State Minister of Motor Traffic, and Transport Dilum Amunugama said.

He said 3,000 buses and 53 trains will be added to the existing fleet to facilitate the general public during the festive season until Friday (16).

However, there would be a limited number of buses operated today (14), he said.

Accordingly, 1,192 Sri Lanka Transport Buses (SLTB) and 1,800 private buses by National Transport Commission (NTC) and 53 trains will be added to provide a better service.

12 train trips would be added to Badulla, six to Jaffna, one to Anuradhapura, eight to Galle, six to Beliatta, 10 to Matara and 14 trains will be operated between Kalutara and Veyangoda.

Therefore, the State Minister requested the public to use the transport services efficiently and not rush on the first day.

All public transport operators are strictly advised to follow the COVID-19 health guidelines and should not exceed the number of passengers in every transport medium. 

The State Minister said safe driving during the festive season is very important due to the alarming escalation in road accidents.

The Ministry will inform the DIG traffic to take stern action against reckless drivers, especially when transporting passengers and refrain from taking them to task during the festive season. (Chaturanga Samarawickrama)