Public transport barred from operating between districts

The Ministry of Passenger Transport Management says that public transport in districts where curfew has been lifted can only operate within the boundaries of their respective districts. 

Addressing a media briefing today (23), Minister of Passenger Transport Management Mahinda Amaraweera stated that public transport will not operate in areas still under curfew. However, Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) buses will be provided to those from essential services including health authorities and the military if the heads of those institutions make a request depending on their needs. 

Mr Amaraweera stated that the head of any institution engaged in essential services must send a list of names of their employees who are traveling by train to the Railway Department.

Public transport in areas where curfew has been lifted will be limited to within that district. Public transport services are not allowed to operate between districts. 

Hand sanitizing products will be provided to passengers in buses and trains while hand sanitizing products must also be made available at all bus and train stations. Security forces will be employed to prevent unnecessary travel on public transport. 

Guidelines issued by health authorities and security forces to prevent the spread of COVID-19 must be strictly enforced. No passenger will be admitted onto public transport without a mask. Masks are also compulsary for those who operate public transport services. Seating in buses will be under the zigzag format, with all buses being disinfected after each journey.