Expressway exits accept only local currency, causing inconvenience: Official

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama   

Payments at expressway exits in Sri Lanka are currently accepted only in Sri Lankan currency, causing inconvenience for many, the Daily Mirror has learnt.   
Although a QR code payment system was introduced during the previous government, complaints have been made that the codes do not function properly.   
A senior official of the Expressway Operation Maintenance And Management Division reported that expressway exits have not implemented systems to accept Visa card payments. Even though Visa card payment facilities were proposed, they have not yet been approved by the relevant authorities.   
People have complained that the existing QR code facility is non-operational and does not scan properly, the official said.   
He mentioned that individuals without Sri Lankan rupees in cash are directed to the nearest police station. The police then guide them to the nearest ATM or bank branch to withdraw the required amount for the expressway fee. Some expressway exit operators use various methods to collect payments from people who do not have Sri Lankan rupees on hand.   
He added that this situation particularly affects foreigners visiting the country for the first time, as they often have only foreign currency or Visa cards and are unable to make the payment at the exits.   
To avoid inconvenience for both locals and foreigners, it is recommended that expressway payment gates be equipped with Visa card payment facilities.   
Although the Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) facility was introduced, it is currently operational only on the Colombo-Katunayake Expressway, the official said.