August 30, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) has increased bus operations across several routes today as large numbers of people begin returning to Colombo following the long weekend.
Additional buses have been placed into service from key towns, including Matara, Galle and Kandy, in an effort to ease congestion and meet the expected surge in passenger numbers. SLTB Chairman Sajeewa Kanakaratne said regional offices had been instructed to implement the necessary arrangements and closely monitor demand on their respective routes.
The Chairman also warned that bus drivers found operating vehicles after consuming drugs would face strict legal consequences. The warning comes after authorities identified a considerable number of drivers suspected of having used drugs at the start of the holiday period.
Rail services have also been strengthened to support the return journey. Railway Media Spokesperson Asanka Samarasinghe said an additional train was scheduled to operate from Anuradhapura to Matara today, providing passengers with another option as travel demand rises.
