Third Metro Bus depot opens in Ekala

A new depot constructed for the Metro Bus service commenced operations today in Ekala, Ja-Ela, aiming to further enhance Sri Lanka's urban public transport system. Marking the third depot established for the Metro Bus service, its operational and administrative launch was held under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways Dr Prasanna Gunasena, with Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning Dr Anil Jayantha also in attendance.

Twenty new Metro buses are scheduled to be deployed from the new Ekala depot. The bus route spans 29.9 kilometres from Ekala to Thalangama in the Colombo District and features 21 designated Metro bus stops. Passengers can access the service across numerous locations, including Ekala, Ja-Ela, Weligampitiya, Kandana, Mahabage, Mabola, Hendala, Wattala, Hekitta Junction, Peliyagoda, Dematagoda, Borella, Campbell Park, Rajagiriya, Sethsiripaya, Battaramulla Junction, and Thalangama.

From September, the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, the Sri Lanka Transport Board, and Lanka Metro Transit Private Company will jointly operate the Metro Bus service across seven comprehensive routes. The opening ceremony was attended by politicians, state officials, and representatives from both the Sri Lanka Transport Board and Lanka Metro Transit.