July 09, Colombo (LNW): The government is preparing to introduce a series of reforms aimed at improving Sri Lanka’s bus transport system, with changes planned for fare structures, route management and service classifications.
Speaking at a meeting of the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Transport, Highways and Urban Development in Parliament, Minister Bimal Rathnayake said one of the key proposals is the introduction of a separate fare calculation formula for long-distance bus services.
He explained that applying a single pricing model to both short- and long-distance routes does not accurately reflect the higher operating expenses associated with extended journeys, including fuel consumption, maintenance and vehicle wear. The revised formula is expected to provide a more balanced approach to fare determination.
The Minister also announced plans to establish a Cluster Bus Company System, designed to improve the management and efficiency of bus operations by grouping services under coordinated administrative structures. A pilot project has already received Cabinet approval and will initially be implemented on bus routes 177, 170 and 190 before any nationwide expansion is considered.
As part of the broader reforms, the government has decided to simplify the classification of bus services by reducing the existing four categories to just two. Under the new system, only normal and luxury services will remain, with the semi-luxury and super-luxury categories being discontinued. Rathnayake noted, however, that legal proceedings relating to the former semi-luxury category are still pending before the courts.
During the committee meeting, transport officials also addressed public concerns over bus fares, explaining that although fuel prices have declined in recent months, operators continue to face significant expenses, including spare parts, maintenance and labour costs. As a result, they said there is currently limited scope for a reduction in bus fares despite lower fuel costs.