Fine on long distance buses without route permits to increase

The Ministry of Transport has decided to increase the fine imposed on long distance buses operating without route permits to Rs.500,000.

Chairman of the National Transport Commission Janaka Mallimarachci said around 200 buses operating without route permits have been identified thus far.

The Chairman noted buses not operating according to the relevant timetable has led to an increase in the number of conflicts between drivers.

The NTC Chairman added the Ministry decided to increase the existing fine of Rs.250,000 to Rs.500,000 for long distance buses that operate without route permits.

The Ministry said the highest number of buses operating without permits operate along the Jaffna-Colombo route.

The Ministry is also due to amend the National Transportation Act after obtaining approval of the Cabinet of Ministers to increase the fine.