August 28, Colombo (LNW): Multiple trade unions representing employees of the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) have launched a coordinated islandwide industrial action, commencing at midnight yesterday (27), in protest against the government’s introduction of a new integrated timetable that combines private and state-run bus services.
The protest, led by seven of the eight SLTB-affiliated trade unions, is being spearheaded by the Samagi United Trade Union Force. Its convenor, Ananda Palitha, alleged that the integrated scheduling initiative is a covert attempt by the government to systematically weaken and dismantle the state-run transport service, placing the SLTB’s future at risk.
According to Palitha, the new timetable system disproportionately favours private operators and undermines the operational autonomy and sustainability of the SLTB.
He further warned that the move could pave the way for the privatisation of key transport services, at the expense of public sector workers and affordable passenger mobility.
In response, Deputy Transport Minister Dr. Prasanna Gunasena dismissed the union action as unwarranted, claiming it lacks a legitimate foundation and is primarily aimed at creating political friction. He affirmed that all SLTB drivers had been instructed to report for duty as usual and warned that disciplinary action, including suspension, would be taken against those participating in the strike without authorisation.
