Sri Lanka Police have stepped up enforcement of the designated bus lane regulations on seven major routes in and around Colombo, with dedicated officers deployed to monitor compliance.
SSP Manoj Ranagala, Director of Traffic Management and Road Safety, said the bus lane system had already been in operation, but police have now taken steps to ensure the regulations are strictly enforced.
The designated bus lanes are currently operating on seven major routes, including Makumbura–Colombo, Kadawatha–Colombo, Dematagoda–Panadura, Battaramulla–Ja-Ela, Kollupitiya–Bambalapitiya, and Kahathuduwa–Pettah. The restrictions apply during peak hours from 6.00 a.m. to 9.00 a.m. and from 4.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m.
Under Extraordinary Gazette No. 1942/1 and Sections 164 and 276 of the Motor Traffic Act, unauthorized vehicles are prohibited from entering or parking in designated bus lanes during the specified hours.
Police said exceptions would apply when a driver needs to avoid an imminent traffic accident, temporarily enters the lane due to severe traffic congestion until the situation clears, or crosses the bus lane to access an intersecting road.
SSP Ranagala warned that drivers who violate the regulations will face fines and other enforcement action. He also said additional police officers would be deployed to address violations and ensure that buses and other road users comply with the designated lane system.
