Sri Lanka's private bus operators warn of strike action in January

Sri Lanka's private bus operators today warned that they would strike in January against the decision of the Western Province Passenger Transport Authority to increase its bus route permits by 20 percent.

The Private Bus Operators Association (PBOA) told a press conference that they would also call on the government to increase bus fares as well.
PBOA President, Gemunu Wijeratne said that the decision of the Western Province Passenger Transport Authority was in contravention of the Supreme Court verdict where it was said to introduce timetables to bus routes in the country.

Wijeratne said the decision to launch the strike action was made following discussions with bus owners in the Gampaha, Kalutara, and Colombo Districts.

He added that the Minister appointed to looking into the private transport sector in the country is helpless, as he has not been given the necessary authority to make relevant decisions.