State Minister of Transport Dilum Amunugama says if operators continue to carry more passengers than the number of seats in buses, two types of bus fares will be introduced.
Speaking to media in Kandy, State Minister Amunugama said that one fare will be introduced for seated passengers and one for standing passengers.
State Minister Dilum Amunugama said last week he informed the Inspector General of Police in writing to seize all buses that violate the regulation to only carry passengers up to seat capacity, adding the directive was enforced in most parts.
He added however the regulation is violated along rural roads.
State Minister Amunugama noted if the measure does not stop, a separate fare will be introduced for passengers who are standing and travelling in buses.
He claimed passengers will be able to pay the fare to travel while standing in buses, if seats are not available.
The State Minister said if bus operators are unable to adhere to the regulation the government was considerate and took steps to introduce a satisfactory fare, based on the country’s situation, then it will be compelled to seek alternatives.
He added therefore bus operators must also agree to the terms presented by the government.
State Minister Dilum Amunugama said failure to do so will lead to the government imposing a separate fare for passengers who are standing in buses while travelling, adding it will not be amended thereafter.
Commenting on the proposal made by Parliamentarian Diana Gamage that the term of the President should be extended by two years, State Minister Dilum Amunugama said it is a practical resolution since the present administration had to deal with the coronavirus crisis during the time period.
The State Minister stressed however the present government is not afraid of facing elections.
He said therefore it is unlikely that the present government will consider the route proposed by MP Gamage and extend the terms of the President and Parliament by two years.
