SL's public transportation ndergoes major pgrades

FROM DEPTHS DEEPER THAN THE MARIANA TRENCH TO MODERNIZED TRANSPORT

- HUZEFA ALIASGER

The public transportation system of Sri Lanka including Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) which was said to be "fallen into depths deeper than the Mariana trench" by minister Bimal Rathnayake, is currently undergoing major upgrades with new laws enforced for bus drivers, upgrades to railway stations and bus stands, modernizing transport by introducing digital ticketing systems and modem low rise buses.

The Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake said that from November 30, 2025, commuters will be able to pay bus fares using bank-issued debit and credit cards on buses equipped with ticket machines.

The system will initially cover routes where ticketing machines are already in use, with plans to expand across the country in phases.