Transport Ministry to establish passenger committees from July 1

Colombo, May 21 (Daily Mirror) - The Transport Ministry has announced plans to establish passenger committees on selected bus routes, with effect from July 1, in a move aimed at empowering commuters and improving public transport services.

Speaking at a media briefing, Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayaka said the initiative is intended to give the public a stronger voice and a formal role in monitoring passenger transport services. 

“People pay their bus fares, and it is only fair that they have a mechanism to express concerns and ensure a comfortable and safe journey,” he said.

Under the new system, road committees will be formed with administrative powers, and members will be formally introduced to the police as official representatives of the public on designated routes.

Any interested passenger will be able to volunteer and join the service on their respective bus route. These committee members will be appointed as special agents, vested with the authority to intervene in situations where individuals in passenger transport buses or school vans cause inconvenience to commuters.

“This is about empowering the people. There needs to be a form of condemning power when passengers are harassed or inconvenienced,” Minister Rathnayaka said.

The Transport Ministry expects this initiative to promote a safer and more orderly public transport environment while strengthening collaboration between passengers, transport authorities and law enforcement.

Further details on how to volunteer for the passenger committees and the scope of their responsibilities are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.