Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Metro Bus service to open to private operators within 12 months
Sri Lanka's Transport Minister has signalled that the Metro Bus service will be opened to private sector participation by next year. The announcement comes as authorities address ongoing interference from private bus operators competing on Metro routes.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake confirmed that the government plans to extend Metro Bus operations to private sector operators within the next 12 months, according to statements made to journalists in Colombo. The timeline reflects the authorities' intention to expand capacity and improve service coverage across the country's public transport network.
The Minister's comments address recent operational challenges, with private bus services reportedly obstructing Metro Bus routes in several areas. These incidents have highlighted tensions between the state-run Metro Bus service and competing private operators on established transit corridors.
Currently, more than 100 Metro buses are in active service, forming a significant component of Sri Lanka's urban and inter-city transport infrastructure. The planned privatisation of some operations is expected to complement existing fleet capacity and introduce competition aimed at enhancing service quality and efficiency.
The move represents a shift in transport policy, allowing private operators to participate in what has been primarily a government-controlled service. Details regarding licensing frameworks, route allocation, and operational standards for private Metro Bus providers are expected to be clarified as implementation plans develop over the coming months.