Transport Minister warns against employing drug-addicted bus drivers

2026-02-09 - 08:59

Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development – Bimal Rathnayake has warned that route permits might face cancellations if bus operators employ drivers addicted to narcotic substances. The Minister instructed bus owners not to engage, under any circumstances, drivers who are using drugs. Meanwhile, screening of drivers involved in passenger transport is currently underway. Accordingly, in addition to blood and urine tests, a pilot project on saliva testing is being implemented to identify drivers under the influence of narcotics.