The Ministry of Transport has decided to permit buses and trains to transport passengers according to the number of seats, in the districts where the curfew has been lifted.

Subject Minister Mahinda Amaraweera, today (12), discussed regularizing transport services to private and state sector employees with relevant authorities. Provincial transport authorities, ministry officials, and representatives of public transport unions participated in the meeting.

The following decisions and action on public transport service were taken at the meeting:

- Private buses are requested to recommence operations from tomorrow (12)

- Private or Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) buses as well trains are allowed to carry passengers according to the number of seats available, from tomorrow. However, this will be allowed only in the districts where the curfew has been lifted. Employees reporting to work in the private and state sector will be given priority in the process.

- The general public is requested to limit the use of public transport unless absolutely necessary.

- While train tickets will be issued for persons who do not possess season tickets, passengers must produce the identity card issued by their workplace in obtaining the ticket.

- Wearing a mask is compulsory for traveling on buses. It has been decided that no person without a mask will be admitted into buses.

- All passengers should enter the bus from the front entrance and exit from the entrance towards the back of the bus.

- Hand sanitizers should be available on all buses while hand-washing facilities have been provided at all bus halts.

- Health sectors, in order to curtail the spread of COVID-19, informs the general public not to use public transport unless absolutely necessary.

While media shows that some state employees have suffered inconveniences due to lack of transport services, it has been observed that many of them had not obtained necessary passes to travel on buses and trains or travel across districts, the press release issued by the Ministry pointed out.

The SLTB has provided an excellent service despite certain shortcomings in some areas, said the Minister.

Further, the issues faced by private bus operators during the past months will be informed to the Cabinet meeting tomorrow, said Amaraweera.