June 02, Colombo (LNW): Private bus operators across Sri Lanka are expected to hold a crucial meeting today (02) to determine how the sector should respond to mounting financial pressures following the recent increase in diesel prices.
Industry representatives are set to discuss a range of options, including measures to mitigate escalating operating costs after authorities opted not to approve an immediate revision of bus fares. The outcome of the discussions could have significant implications for public transport services in the coming weeks.
Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association President Gemunu Wijeratne said the meeting would bring together leaders from several private transport organisations to assess the challenges currently facing operators and explore possible solutions.
According to Wijeratne, many bus owners have expressed growing concern over the sustainability of services under the present fare structure, arguing that rising fuel expenses, maintenance costs and other operational expenditures are placing severe strain on the industry.
He noted that operators had hoped for discussions with the government regarding relief measures or a possible fare adjustment but claimed that no satisfactory response had been received thus far. As a result, several stakeholders are reportedly calling for stronger action to highlight the difficulties faced by the sector.
While some bus owners have advocated reducing or temporarily suspending services as a form of protest, Wijeratne stressed that no final decision has yet been taken. He said the associations would first evaluate all available options and consider the potential impact on both operators and passengers before announcing a collective position.
