Online seat booking system launched for long-distance bus passengers

Colombo, May 4 (Daily Mirror) - A new website enabling long-distance passengers to reserve bus seats in advance through an online booking system was officially introduced by the government, aiming to ease travel and improve efficiency in public transport.

Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development Bimal Ratnayake announced the initiative at a special media briefing held today (05) at the Transport Ministry.

Addressing the media, the Minister said the government is committed to improving public convenience under a people-centric development program.
“If we can make the lives of the people of this country even a tenth easier, we will do it. As a people-oriented government, we are taking the country forward under a planned program in accordance with the mandate,” he said.

He explained that the online seat booking system has been initially introduced as a pilot project for private long-distance buses. Passengers can now check seat availability in advance and arrive at bus stops accordingly, reducing the need for last-minute rushes.

The Minister said that the new system addresses several longstanding issues, including overcharging and cancellations. Previously, passengers often had to pay between Rs. 200 to Rs. 300 to reserve seats. Under the new system, seat reservations will cost as low as Rs. 30.

“This system is convenient and beneficial for both passengers and bus operators. We are grateful to SLT-Mobitel for providing the technical support,” he added.

Chairman of SLT-Mobitel, Motilal De Silva, said the company aims to go beyond telecommunications services by collaborating with other sectors to address public needs.

“It is a pleasure to contribute to sectors such as finance, agriculture, and transportation to help solve issues faced by the general public,” he said.
Advisor to the Ministry of Digital Economy, Sumudu Ratnayake, highlighted that the system allows passengers to book seats from home and arrive on time. He added that plans are underway to integrate all booking methods into a centralized platform to improve accessibility and service delivery.

Providing technical details, SLT-Mobitel General Manager (Digital Transformation Project) Ishari Siriwardena said passengers can make reservations through three methods: via the website www.busticket.gov.lk⁠ using a mobile phone or computer, by calling 011-2001266, or through KIOSK machines installed at the Makumbura Multimodal Transport Center.

Payments can currently be made using VISA and MasterCard, with plans to introduce QR-based and mobile wallet payment options in the near future.
Chairman of the National Transport Commission, Eng. P. A. Chandrapala, also attended the event.