Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake has stated that the private sector will be given the opportunity to participate in the Metro Bus Service within one year.
The Minister made these remarks while responding to questions from journalists following an event held in Colombo.
He also warned that individuals who damage Metro buses could face severe legal consequences under laws relating to damage to public property.
The Minister noted that more than 100 Metro buses are currently in operation and that the vast majority of private bus operators have not caused any obstructions, with incidents reported involving only a few buses.
Emphasising that the issue does not involve all private bus owners, the Minister urged private operators to cooperate with and operate in alignment with the Metro Bus Service.
