SLTB to recruit women bus drivers and conductors

Speaking at a special program held at the Colombo District Secretariat on Tuesday (16), the minister revealed that 750 new drivers and conductors are being recruited to address the current staff shortage.

Minister Ratnayake admitted that the SLTB had “fallen into depths deeper than the Mariana Trench,” blaming decades of political interference for its downfall. He described the state of many SLTB depots as “hell on earth,” plagued by inefficiencies and shortcomings.

However, he emphasized that efforts are underway to rebuild the institution, highlighting that steps have already been taken to modernize 25 bus depots across the country.

The minister assured that the government is committed to transforming the SLTB into a profitable and sustainable public transport provider, with the recruitment of women drivers and conductors marking a significant milestone in that effort.