10th Parliament· 154 sittings on record · 30,475 speeches · latest 10 June 2026

The Hon. Ravindra Bandara

9 May 2025 ·Debate: Private Members' Motion (P.37/2025): Public Transport Standards and Bus Specifications

Public FinanceInfrastructureEnvironment
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Hon. Ravindra Bandara supported the proposal to modernize public transport, citing past school bus accidents and the risks posed by ageing buses. He emphasized the need to improve passenger comfort and accessibility, including low-floor buses for persons with disabilities, and referred to Budget plans for new buses and further SLTB procurement. He also argued that better public transport is important for tourism and Sri Lanka’s image as a destination.

Verbatim record (translated)

Machine-translated from Sinhala / Tamil / English

¶ 01 We recall school bus accidents where bus floors collapsed and lives were lost. Many buses are over 15 years old. As we move forward, we must prioritize passenger comfort. I recall the Budget proposed initially 200 new buses, and SLTB will procure more from its own earnings. We must also consider accessibility for persons with disabilities; low-floor buses provide better access.

¶ 02 Tourists visit Sri Lanka for our environment, fresh air, and hospitality. If our public transport lags behind, it adversely affects this revenue-earning sector. I believe this timely proposal will be approved. Thank you.

Provenance

Source
Hansard, Friday, 9 May 2025 ·No. 1748600585013314 ·English daily/uncorrected Hansard
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Permalink
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Cite as: The Hon. Ravindra Bandara. 10th Parliament, Parliament of Sri Lanka. Hansard, 9 May 2025. No. 1748600585013314. Politick, https://staging.politick.io/lk/speeches/24882