January 06, Colombo (LNW): The National Transport Commission (NTC) has initiated efforts to create a comprehensive list of passenger rights, aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of those travelling by bus.
This new initiative seeks to standardise expectations for bus passengers, ensuring greater accountability and safety across the country’s bus network.
The proposed list will draw from the regulations outlined in the operating licences issued to bus services by the NTC, alongside the specific terms set by provincial councils for bus operations.
This collaborative approach aims to ensure that all relevant conditions, which govern the safety, comfort, and rights of passengers, are included in the final set of guidelines.
NTC Chairman Dr. Bandura Dileepa Witharana told Ada Derana that the Commission is in the process of consulting with various stakeholders, including bus associations and passenger rights organisations, before finalising the list.
These discussions will help address the concerns and perspectives of those directly involved in the bus transport system, ensuring that the rights of passengers are appropriately balanced with the operational realities faced by bus operators.
In addition to prioritising passenger safety, Witharana also highlighted that measures are being taken to protect the job security of private bus drivers and conductors.
