Sri Lanka private bus operators to discuss fare hike with Minister

Private Transport Minister of Sri Lanka C.B. Ratnayake is to meet with the private bus operators today to decide on increasing bus fares following the recent fuel price hike. The private bus operators have requested the government for a diesel subsidy instead of increasing bus fares. The Minister has asked for some time to consider the matter and he will announce the government's decision at the meeting today. Private bus operator's call for a fuel subsidy or a fare hike was renewed following the recent fuel price hike. Meanwhile, the local media quoting sources from the transport sector has said that fares were likely to be increased by 10%.