More buses, trains during festive season from April 9 to 16: Dilum

Nearly 3,000 additional buses and 53 trains will be added to the present fleet to enhance transport facilities for the public during the festive season starting from April 9 to 16, State Minister of Motor Traffic, and Transport Dilum Amunugama said.

Addressing the media at the Ministry today, the State Minister said that 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.

The NTC Chairman added that their bus fleet is on standby, could be utilised if necessary.

Accordingly, the Acting General Manager of Railways said 12 train trips will be added to Badulla, six trains 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 to rush on the first day.

All public transport operators are strictly told 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, they take them to task during the festive season. (Chaturanga Samarawickrama)