By: Isuru Parakrama
July 30, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has taken a significant step towards upgrading its public transport network with the arrival of the first consignment of 104 new Metro buses yesterday (29).
The vehicles are expected to play a key role in improving the efficiency, reliability and overall quality of bus services across the country.
The buses have been supplied by China’s Foton International Corporation, one of the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers. Their arrival follows an agreement signed in May this year as part of the Government’s efforts to modernise the public transport sector and provide commuters with a more comfortable travelling experience.
The latest shipment represents the first phase of the procurement programme, with the newly imported fleet set to be introduced into passenger service in the coming weeks.
Officials have previously stated that the Metro buses will feature card-based electronic fare payment systems, marking a move towards a more modern and convenient ticketing process.
The new buses are expected to begin operating on public routes by September 20, offering passengers improved accessibility, enhanced comfort and a more efficient daily commute.