Police enforce parking ban near bus stops

The Sri Lanka Police issued instructions to all police stations to enforce the law against drivers who park or leave vehicles in a manner that obstructs designated bus stops.

The Police Media Division stated that bus drivers are frequently forced to stop on the roadway because other vehicles occupy spaces reserved for public transport buses, causing traffic congestion and endangering passenger safety.

The issue poses serious risks to passengers, particularly with the introduction of wheelchair-accessible bus services for persons with disabilities. When bus stops are blocked, passengers face dangerous conditions while boarding and alighting from buses.

A special Government Gazette notification prohibits parking within 30 metres of a bus stop and within 15 metres of its exit. For bus stops equipped with bus bays, parking remains banned within 15 metres of the bus stop and within 10 metres of its exit.

These measures aim to ensure public transport buses stop safely at designated locations, safeguard passengers, and reduce unnecessary traffic congestion.