The latest operation at the Kadawatha bus stand today (12) resulted in seven drivers and conductors being identified as having used dangerous drugs, out of 148 individuals tested during a surprise inspection.
The exercise is part of a broader enforcement push led by the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, aimed at improving discipline within the public transport sector and reducing road accidents linked to impaired driving.
The programme, introduced under a concept by Minister Bimal Ratnayake, is being carried out with support from the Sri Lanka Police and the National Institute of Transport Medicine.
Officials said a specially equipped mobile laboratory bus is being used to conduct on-the-spot screening of drivers at bus depots and transport hubs across the country.
Medical teams involved in the programme said the initiative is not only focused on identifying offenders but also on creating long-term behavioural change among drivers to ensure safer roads for passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists.
