Private bus operators have requested the National Transport Commission (NTC) to implement the annual bus fare revision from July 1, citing rising operating costs and industry concerns.
The request was submitted in writing on June 24, according to Gamunu Wijeratne, the Chairman of the Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association (LPBOA).
Wijeratne said discussions with the NTC on the proposed fare revision are expected to take place within the next five days.
He noted that while the associations had earlier proposed implementing the annual fare revision on July 5, a subsequent decision was made to seek the customary July 1 implementation date following consultations with member associations.
"We discussed the matter with all our affiliated associations and obtained their approval before submitting a written request yesterday to revise the annual bus fare from July 1, as has been the usual practice," Wijeratne said.
He added that the associations have already submitted their cost calculations to the NTC and expressed confidence that the July fare revision would exceed 15 percent.
The annual bus fare revision is typically determined based on a formula that takes into account fuel prices and other operational costs.
