Bus fare hike deemed sufficient as services to normalise from tomorrow

2026-03-24 - 03:14

The National Transport Commission has announced that the newly increased bus fares are sufficient at present, according to the Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association. Accordingly, the Association’s Chairman, Gemunu Wijeratne, stated that normal bus operations will resume from tomorrow (March 24). Cabinet Spokesman, Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said that Cabinet approval had been granted to increase bus fares by 12.19%, effective from midnight today (23). As a result, the minimum bus fare, which was previously Rs. 27, has been increased to Rs. 30. Meanwhile, the maximum fare has risen by Rs. 263, from Rs. 2,159 to Rs. 2,422. The National Transport Commission has instructed both Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) and private bus operators to charge only the approved fares. It also warned that legal action will be taken against those who overcharge passengers. Passengers are requested to lodge complaints if they are charged above the approved fare by contacting the Commission via its hotline 1955 or through WhatsApp on 071 259 5555.