Loss-making operations at several Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) depots are largely due to their location in rural areas and the resulting lower number of daily bus services, Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways Prasanna Gunasena told Parliament today (11).

Responding to a question in Parliament, the Deputy Minister said the government has already initiated measures to address the issue through a more structured operational framework.

He further noted that the poor condition of the SLTB bus fleet has led to frequent repair and maintenance requirements, placing a significant financial burden on the board and contributing to its losses.

Deputy Minister Gunasena also provided an update on staff recruitment, stating that efforts have been made to fill a portion of the vacancies that existed within the SLTB as of January 31, 2026.

According to the Deputy Minister, vacancies at that time included 1,034 drivers, 1,022 conductors, 429 technical officers and 59 workshop supervisors. As of June 10, the number of vacancies had been reduced to 647 drivers and 770 conductors, while vacancies for technical officers and workshop supervisors remained unchanged.

He said steps are underway to recruit personnel for the remaining positions and added that interviews aimed at addressing salary anomalies and confirming employees in their designated posts have already been completed.

Deputy Minister Prasanna Gunasena added that the government plans to seek Cabinet approval through a formal proposal to resolve the outstanding issues.