The Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, we listened to the Minister. Strengthening the transport system is essential for national progress. Historically, rail and SLTB were dominant; today, private buses, school buses, app-based services like Uber, and three-wheelers are integral.

¶ 02 In the Western Province there are about 6,000 buses; only around 4,678 are in operation—often due to cannibalizing parts, creating unsafe “patched” fleets. SLTB cannot meet peak demand alone; private buses are indispensable. While SLTB must be reformed—agreed—successive governments overstaffed it politically.

¶ 03 On enforcement, police effectively tackle drunk driving using breathalyzers. However, a growing threat is drug-impaired driving—some bus drivers reportedly operate under narcotics (“ice,” pills). This is more dangerous than alcohol; we need testing and enforcement mechanisms urgently, even if the proportion is small.

¶ 04 On vehicle modifications: accessories protruding or dazzling lights that endanger others must be removed. Yet enforcement should be balanced—people also value cleanliness, adjustable seating, decent audio and lighting. Avoid arbitrary crackdowns; consult stakeholders. Some buses operate only on private hires with appropriate permits and entertainment features—do not impose blanket bans without study. Sudden, ill-considered policy shifts—like the overnight organic fertilizer decision—have caused national harm. Please deliberate carefully.

¶ 05 Three-wheelers render vital service and deserve recognition, while bad actors should be sanctioned. Under this powerful mega-Ministry, also cultivate public discipline—noise pollution from horns is rampant compared to abroad. Civic behavior must be shaped from school upwards.

¶ 06 Finally, a political note: your Government won a strong mandate eight months and 148 days ago, but recent local poll results show a significant vote drop—a red light. Work harder, heed constructive Opposition proposals, and make this NTC reform a success. Thank you.