September 29, Colombo (LNW): Authorities are reintroducing dedicated bus-priority lanes in Colombo and nearby areas from today (29), as part of a pilot initiative aimed at improving traffic movement during peak hours.
The designated lanes will be in operation between 6.00 a.m. and 9.00 a.m., and again from 4.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. Transport, Highways and Urban Development Minister Bimal Rathnayake said the trial would be monitored as officials assess its impact on congestion and public transport efficiency.
The Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association (LPBOA) has welcomed the move, with its chairman Gemunu Wijeratne pledging the organisation’s support for the initiative.
Police have also been instructed to strictly enforce the regulations. Assistant Superintendent of Police Manoj Ranagala of the Traffic Control and Road Safety Division said officers had been directed to take legal action against motorists and other road users who breach the bus-lane restrictions.
At the same time, Colombo’s public transport network is set for a further expansion, with the Metro Bus service adding five new routes from today.
Lanka Metro Transit chairman U.P. Thilakaratne said 122 Metro buses are expected to operate as part of the expanded network, providing additional capacity for commuters travelling within the city.