A special discussion was held today (29) at the Kegalle District Secretariat to examine the transportation issues prevailing in the Kegalle District. The meeting was chaired by the Chairman of the Kegalle District Coordinating Committee and Minister of Environment, Dr. Dhammika Patabendi, together with the Kegalle District Secretary, Mr. K.G.S. Nishantha.

The primary objective of the discussion was to identify and address the challenges faced in the transportation sector of the district and to ensure the provision of an efficient and well-organized public transport service for the people.

During the meeting, several key matters were discussed, including bus routes operating at a loss, the monthly income and profit status of depots, and issues related to bus operating schedules. Attention was also drawn to the failure of buses to operate continuously and to complete their journeys up to the designated destinations. Depot managers presented their views and explanations regarding these concerns.

The Chairman of the Coordinating Committee emphasized the importance of taking all possible measures to prevent ongoing disruptions and difficulties in public transportation services and to ensure uninterrupted transport facilities for the public.

Addressing the gathering, the District Secretary stated that a mechanism would be introduced to provide the support of productivity officers attached to the District Secretariat in resolving management-related issues faced by depot managers.

The discussion also focused on maintaining transport services on loss-making routes while improving depot revenue. In this regard, attention was given to the possibility of establishing an integrated transport service based on mutual agreement among all stakeholders.

The event was attended by Members of Parliament representing the Kegalle District, representatives of the political authority, the District Planning Director, Deputy Planning Directors, depot operations managers, engineering managers, officials from institutions related to the transportation sector, and several other officials.