Bus fare discussions unsuccessful

7 January 2011 01:30 pm - 10 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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The Private Bus Operators Association said that discussions held today with the Transport Ministry on their request to increase bus fares was a failure and that therefore private buses are ready to go on an all-island strike on January 11.

"We were told by the Transport authorities that an increment in bus fares would be considered after a committee was formed to review the bus fares structure. We are not happy with this decision and will continue with the strike as planned if all bus operators are willing to do so.

The increase in bus fares is necessary for all the bus owners in the country. Therefore if we go on strike it will be carried out through out the island," the association's President, Gemunu Wijeyratne said.

He said that private bus owners will meet again tomorrow ( Sunday 9) to discuss the matter again and that a final decision will be made on the all-island strike. Private bus owners have requested to increase bus fares by 3%.

Discussions were held today with Transport Minister, Kumara Welgama, National Transport Commission Chairman and other Transport Ministry officials. (Olindhi Jayasundere)

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Comments - 10

I Hussein Friday, 07 January 2011 01:39 PM

Its time for Transport Ministry to put a fulstop to Pve Bus monopoly. Billions have been allocated for various developments. Cant they provide adequate buses to every depot in the Island to run a proper bus service. If they do so Gemunu W. will have to find another job.

Calistus Jayatilleke Friday, 07 January 2011 01:41 PM

The public cannot bear another increase in bus fares. So, let them keep their buses at home and let the public adopt the theory of "Bas Thiyan Payin Yamu"

Dinesh Friday, 07 January 2011 01:46 PM

I think an increment should be given based incresing the fines on bad driving. They really do not know how to drive on roads. Before giving anythiung they need to educated to drive properly.

Anushka Friday, 07 January 2011 02:38 PM

MR, please take over these buses to the government and hand them over to the SLTB. No one will be against using the executive presidency powers for something useful and beneficial like that.

Nishantha Friday, 07 January 2011 04:40 PM

i will not watch this world cup , SANA , you should play another 5 games and show who you are

Pandula Friday, 07 January 2011 05:14 PM

Please deploy Army to run buses.

Steve Friday, 07 January 2011 05:42 PM

Let the private buss companies go on strike as long as they want and in the meantime CTB should take over the slack. Then they will get the message not to dictate.

Steve Friday, 07 January 2011 10:16 PM

You can't ask for more if they go on strike !

shakspear Saturday, 08 January 2011 12:24 AM

Remove the duty on the simple transport medias like motor bike, push bikes etc. So then public can avoid their inconvenience.

Cobra Saturday, 08 January 2011 01:42 AM

Arguments and counter arguments, but eventually the Govt. will succumb and the commuter will pay these highway robbers what they demand!

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Bus fare discussions unsuccessful

Comments - 10

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