Bus fare discussions unsuccessful

7 January 2011 01:30 pm Views - 3675

The Private Bus Operators Association said that discussions held today with the Transport Ministry on their request to increase bus fares was a failure and that therefore private buses are ready to go on an all-island strike on January 11.
 
"We were told by the Transport authorities that an increment in bus fares would be considered after a committee was formed to review the bus fares structure. We are not happy with this decision and will continue with the strike as planned if all bus operators are willing to do so.

The increase in bus fares is necessary for all the bus owners in the country. Therefore if we go on strike it will be carried out through out the island," the association's President, Gemunu Wijeyratne said.
 
He said that private bus owners will meet again tomorrow ( Sunday 9) to discuss the matter again and that a final decision will be made on the all-island strike. Private bus owners have requested to increase bus fares by 3%.

Discussions were held today with Transport Minister, Kumara Welgama, National Transport Commission Chairman and other Transport Ministry officials. (Olindhi Jayasundere)