November 05, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s Metro Bus service is expected to receive a major boost in 2027, with authorities preparing to add another 50 buses to the fleet as part of efforts to improve public transport and provide commuters with more convenient travel options.
Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways Prasanna Gunasena announced that the planned expansion would increase the service’s capacity, while longer-term proposals are being considered to extend its operations beyond the Western Province to other major destinations, including Kandy, Jaffna and Galle.
The Metro Bus initiative has grown considerably since its introduction as a pilot programme, which began with just 10 buses serving passengers along two routes. Its gradual expansion has transformed it into a considerably larger transport network.
At present, the service operates 122 buses across seven routes, providing coverage throughout all three districts of the Western Province. The proposed addition of 50 vehicles is expected to further strengthen its operational capacity and improve the availability of services for daily commuters.
The possibility of extending the network to Kandy, Jaffna and Galle could also mark an important step towards taking the service to a wider section of the population, particularly those travelling within and between major urban centres.
These developments were discussed at a meeting chaired by Deputy Minister Gunasena on 4 November, which focused on improving the LMT Go mobile application and enhancing the overall experience of passengers using the Metro Bus network.
The discussions placed particular emphasis on making the digital platform more effective and improving the quality and convenience of the service.
With passenger numbers and expectations continuing to shape the demand for better public transport, the proposed fleet expansion and future geographical reach are expected to form part of broader efforts to modernise Sri Lanka’s bus services and encourage greater use of organised public transportation.
