New metro bus service to tackle Colombo

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake instructed officials to explore the feasibility of connecting other transport modes with the railway system through the development of multimodal transport hubs.

The directive came during a meeting yesterday with officials from the Ministry of Transport and Highways regarding a strategic plan to ensure quality transport services. It was revealed that a Metro Bus service is planned to alleviate the heavy traffic congestion currently experienced in Colombo, with the buses expected to arrive by next August.

This project will launch as a pilot program across six main roads around Colombo. While starting in the Western Province, the program aims to expand to the Galle and Kandy districts, eventually reaching eight major cities within the next three years. Additionally, the meeting discussed a newly developed regulatory framework for three-wheelers, taxis, and school vans, which officials expect to present after consultations with all relevant stakeholders.