Private bus operators have renewed calls for a fare revision after a series of recent fuel price increases significantly raised operating costs across Sri Lanka’s public transport sector.
Representatives of several private bus associations met officials at the Ministry of Transport and Highways on Wednesday (04) to discuss the possibility of increasing bus fares in response to higher diesel prices.
The meeting comes after Auto Diesel prices were increased twice within a single month. Diesel prices rose by Rs. 10 on May 3 and by a further Rs. 15 on May 30, resulting in a cumulative increase of Rs. 25 per litre.
Bus operators argue that the sharp increase has placed additional pressure on an industry already facing rising maintenance costs, spare part expenses and other operational challenges.
During previous discussions among transport sector stakeholders, several private bus associations agreed to request either a 5% interim fare increase or a fuel subsidy to help offset the impact of rising fuel costs.
At Wednesday’s meeting, association representatives were informed by the Private Secretary to Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake that an urgent discussion with the Minister would be arranged in the coming days to further examine the issue.
Following the meeting, representatives of the bus industry expressed concern over the current situation, stating that operators are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain services under existing fare structures.
The Chairman of the Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association, Gemunu Wijeratne, emphasized that a practical solution is needed to address the financial pressures facing the industry. He said bus operators expect to meet with the Minister shortly and warned that further decisions regarding future action could be taken if the matter remains unresolved.
Transport sector analysts note that any fare revision would directly affect millions of daily commuters who depend on public buses for work, education and other essential travel. At the same time, they point out that maintaining a financially sustainable public transport system is crucial to ensuring uninterrupted services nationwide.
Industry representatives maintain that the proposed fare adjustment is intended as a temporary measure to help operators manage increased costs while continuing to provide transport services.
No final decision has yet been announced regarding a fare increase. However, further discussions between transport authorities and private bus associations are expected in the coming days as both sides seek a solution that balances commuter affordability with the financial realities facing the transport sector.
