The Hon. K. Ilankumaran

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, after 34 years we are amending the National Transport Commission Act, No. 37 of 1991, to provide a better service to the people. The Commission has so far issued route permits and timetables, but this Bill introduces safety-oriented regulatory powers, including for school, three-wheeler, and office transport, with quality certification and oversight to assure passenger safety. These are welcome steps to curb dangerous bus competition for revenue.

¶ 02 In Jaffna, after three decades of war and 16 years post-war, people expected benefits, including in transport. Many Tamil residents and students rely on night trains. Our Government extended the Jaffna–Colombo Fort night service to Moratuwa, allowing passengers to disembark closer to their destinations, reduce onward costs, and improve safety. This has boosted confidence in Government services.

¶ 03 Roads must be improved. The Government has allocated Rs. 100 million to rehabilitate rural roads in Jaffna. The Vattuvagal Bridge, damaged by war and neglected for 16 years, will be rebuilt, with work to commence by August as assured by the Hon. Minister. I thank the Government.

¶ 04 The Government is also extending the parcel/freight train service to Kankesanthurai. Jaffna has had no fuel storage terminal; fuel is hauled from Anuradhapura by bowser, causing accidents—recently one overturned in Chavakachcheri. The Government is establishing a fuel storage terminal in the Northern Province and studying fuel haulage by rail, which will reduce road accidents.

¶ 05 Crowding and accidents deter public transport use. By improving public transport quality, we can reduce congestion and accidents and encourage modal shift. The 1991 Act went unamended for 34 years. Now, with consensus in this House, we are addressing its gaps.

¶ 06 Jaffna also needs maritime transport. The district has the highest number of islands, long neglected. The Government is initiating the rehabilitation of the Kurikattuwan jetty to enhance sea transport. Currently, only four islands have formal services; many islands remain uninhabited or underutilized. With proper jetties and safe boat services, these can become tourism hubs, bringing visitors to the North. Karainagar’s Nainativu–Kurikkattuwan sector, for example, needs better jetties, maintenance facilities, and regular services.

¶ 07 The 5.30 a.m. Jaffna-origin train has been suspended; we informed the Minister, who assured action to restore it. Under the Clean Sri Lanka programme, we are refurbishing bus stands with clean, usable sanitation, as poor facilities deter tourists and locals alike.

¶ 08 This Bill will benefit people and build confidence. I am pleased to have participated. Thank you.