Special bus and train services from Colombo to outstation areas and back have been launched for the festive season, starting today (December 24), under the supervision of the National Transport Commission (NTC).
The services are being operated jointly by the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB), Sri Lanka Railways and all Provincial Road Passenger Transport Authorities to meet the increased travel demand during Christmas, long weekends and the upcoming New Year.
NTC Chairman Engineer P. A. Chandrapala said additional bus services will operate alongside regular timetables to ensure uninterrupted transport facilities for the public.
Speaking at a media briefing at the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, he said all SLTB depots have been mobilised under a joint plan to strengthen long-distance and intercity services.
Long-distance buses are operating under NTC regulation, centred around Kadawatha, Kaduwela and Makumbura terminals. Around 70 routes have been deployed towards Galle and Matara, while expressway services and coastal highway routes are also in operation. Special teams have been deployed for long-distance routes including Badulla and Ampara.
Revised timetables have been introduced for Kadawatha and Kaduwela expressway services, and additional SLTB buses have been deployed from Colombo to surrounding towns and major cities. Priority has also been given to bus operations in disaster-affected areas.
The special bus service will continue until January 5 next year. Passengers are requested to report transport-related issues to hotline 1955.
