State Minister Dilum Amunugama has warned that public transport services will have to be suspended once again, if health guidelines are not adhered to, amidst the prevailing COVID-19 situation.
Speaking during a media briefing in Kandy, the State Minister urged bus operators to adhere to advice issued by health authorities when transporting passengers.
He said drivers and conductors have no right to transport passengers exceeding the seat capacity.
State Minister Amunugama noted Police have been instructed to arrest such bus operators, for violating quarantine regulations, adding that all bus unions agreed to the directive and called for the orders to be implemented.
The State Minister said if the directive is disregarded, public transport will be suspended due to the spread of the Delta variant. He added bus operators will also lose their income.
State Minister Amunugama further said according to the latest circular heads of institutions have been given authority to summon staff to work on rotational basis from tomorrow.
He noted discussions were held with the Secretary to the President and officials regarding granting permission for employees to report to work between 8am-10am, adding they do not have to arrive at work by 8am.
The State Minister added heads of institutions have also been informed that 7 work hours is sufficient, and therefore if an employee reports to work at 10am they will be able to leave by 6pm.
He stressed the decision was reached to avoid congestion in public transport, adding that train and bus schedules have also been amended accordingly from tomorrow.
State Minister Amunugama said therefore he believes congestion in public transport will reduce by Tuesday.
