Sri Lanka Police have urged motorists to refrain from parking or leaving vehicles in a manner that obstructs designated bus stops, warning that such practices pose risks to passengers and contribute to traffic congestion.
Police said bus drivers are frequently forced to stop on the roadway because other vehicles are parked at designated bus stops intended for public transport buses to stop and for passengers to board and alight.
This practice not only disrupts traffic flow but also poses a significant safety risk to passengers, police said.
Police particularly highlighted the need to keep bus stops clear following the introduction of wheelchair-accessible bus services for persons with disabilities. When bus stops are obstructed, persons with disabilities and other passengers may be placed in dangerous situations while boarding or alighting from buses.
A special Government Gazette notification prohibits vehicles from being parked within 30 metres of a bus stop and within 15 metres of its exit.
For bus stops equipped with bus bays, parking is prohibited within 15 metres of the bus stop and within 10 metres of its exit, according to Police.
Sri Lanka Police have instructed all police stations to take appropriate legal action against drivers who park or leave vehicles in a manner that obstructs designated bus stops.
The measures are aimed at ensuring that public transport buses can safely stop at designated locations, allowing passengers to board and alight safely while also helping to reduce unnecessary traffic congestion.
