The Lanka Private Bus Owners Association says only 20 percent of buses were in operation today (16).
President of the Association Gemunu Wijeratne speaking to NewsRadio said the number of private buses in operation can increase if a significant portion of diesel stocks are allocated for the bus industry.
Wijeratne said only 4,000 buses were in operation today while a handful of buses were provided diesel through five Sri Lanka Transport Board run depots.
He added with the severe shortage of petrol, the provision of 600,000 litres of diesel for private buses daily will ensure the convenience of the public.
Wijeratne said private buses require 600,000 litres daily and can transport four million passengers.
He noted that Sri Lanka Railways is provided 900,000 litres while only 500,000 commuters travel by train.
Therefore, he urged the government to prioritise the bus industry for the convenience of the public.
