Three-wheel regulatory authority to be established - Minister Arjuna Ranatunga

Minister Arjuna Ranatunga has pledged to the setting up of a separate authority for the regulation of three-wheelers in the near future.

He made these remarks today (Jan 21) while addressing an event that was held to establish a regulatory zone for three-wheelers in Ragama.

The Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Arjuna Ranatunga also said that the National Council for Road Safety (NCRS) would also be converted into an authority in future.

Today's event was the second project under the national programme to establish three-wheeler regulatory zones across the country.

Accordingly, a machanism to grant pension for three-wheel drivers was also launched while also recognising the oldest three-wheel drivers in the area and those who have been engaged in this profession for over 25 years.

In addition, licenses were also given to 50 three-wheeler drivers along with new uniforms.

Addessing the gathering, Minister Ranatunga said that several three-wheeler associations have repeatedly requested a mechanism to regulate three-wheelers.

"I feel that this is of utmost importance for this profession to survive in the years to come" he opined.

Mr. Ranatunga also said that the society's perception on three-wheel drivers must be changed. He added that people do not respect three-wheel drivers although they too are gentleman.

"This situation is a result of the mistakes committed by a handful of drivers" he said.

The Transport Minister explained that it is due to this reason that he hopes to establish the NCRS as an authority in future.