The Hon. Kathiravelu Shanmugam Kugathasan

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, I wish to speak on the 2026 Regulations published in Gazette Extraordinary Nos. 2471/68 (National Transport Commission Act) and 2470/14 (Motor Traffic Act).

¶ 02 - The NTC Regulations (under Section 44, read with Section 11/J of the 1991 Act) constitute the first comprehensive framework to regularize private inter‑provincial bus permit transfers, which previously occurred via informal contracts and powers of attorney due to the absence of legal transfer mechanisms. Key features include financial capacity requirements (minimum Rs. 2 million average bank balance over the preceding six months by the transferee), proof of ownership and freedom from court or institutional actions, and cancellation of any pre‑existing powers of attorney related to the permit.

¶ 03 - The Motor Traffic Regulations expand access to special forward registration numbers beyond the prior 50,000 limit to 100,000 for all vehicle classes except motorcycles and motor tricycles, with a fixed fee of Rs. 1,000,000 for numbers 50,001–100,000 ahead. This both monetizes a premium service and raises non‑tax revenue.

¶ 04 While intended to professionalize the industry and improve transparency, concerns exist: - The Rs. 2 million balance requirement may deter small and young investors entering the bus industry. - A Rs. 1 million fee for special numbers could entrench a prestige culture based on wealth.

¶ 05 These reforms can be a turning point if balanced with safeguards for financial inclusion and transparency. Turning to Trincomalee District: the SLTB district office requires 37 buses but has only 26. Please repair unserviceable buses, provide at least 10 more, and address the 50% staff shortage in the Trincomalee SLTB office.

¶ 06 Thank you.