Private bus owners demand fare hike

Claiming that bus fares has not been revised in nearly two years, private bus owners have requested the government for permission to hike fares.

The request had been made at a meeting held between the Minister of Passenger Transport Services Management and representative of private bus companies.

Private bus owners say that they do not receive a proper income as the buses have to operate under health guidelines issued by the government and the public has reduced the use of public transport due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, it is not appropriate to hike bus fares at the moment as all sectors in the country are facing losses due to the pandemic situation, stated Minister Mahinda Amaraweera.

The Minister further said that he is willing to discuss the matter if the private bus sector requires relief.