According to trade union representative Upul Rohana, the current system calculates converted travel expenses based on mileage and subsistence allowances, with variations across Provincial Councils. However, the mileage component remains fixed under the Public Administration Circular at Rs. 2.00 per kilometre for private motorcycles and Rs. 1.50 for government-issued motorcycles.
He pointed out that the approved travel allowance covers up to 600 kilometres per month. Under current fuel prices, the cost of travelling this distance is estimated at around Rs. 5,970, assuming a motorcycle runs approximately 40–45 kilometres per litre.
In contrast, the actual mileage allowance paid amounts to only Rs. 1,200, leaving a significant shortfall.
Rohana claimed that public servants are forced to spend nearly Rs. 4,770 from their personal salaries each month on fuel alone, even before accounting for maintenance costs.
He stressed that this financial burden directly affects household expenses and urged the Ministry of Health and relevant authorities to reassess the existing allowance system in light of current economic conditions.
