Reduced Bus Fares Now In Effect

COLOMBO (News 1st); As of midnight yesterday, bus fares were reduced by 4.24%.

Consequently, the minimum bus fare has been decreased from Rs. 28 to Rs. 27.

The Ministry of Transport stated that this decision was made to pass on the benefits of reduced fuel prices to the public.

The Ministry also warned that legal action would be taken against bus operators who charge passengers more than the stipulated fare.

However, the All Ceylon Inter-Provincial School Children Transport Association announced that despite the reduction in fuel prices, it is not feasible to lower the transport fares for school children.

Meanwhile, the All Ceylon Three-Wheeler Owners' and Drivers' Association declared that there would be no reduction in three-wheeler fares. 

The association's chairman, Sudil Jayaruk, mentioned that fare reductions would only be considered if the price of petrol drops below Rs. 300.

The Samagi Joint Trade Union Alliance has expressed its disapproval of the recent fuel price adjustment.

D.A. Rajakaruna, Chairman of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) and Ceylon Petroleum Storage Terminals Limited (CPSTL), announced the introduction of a pricing formula for fuel prices, which has been approved and legalized by the Cabinet.

Rajakaruna explained that the fuel prices are now determined based on this formula.