Sri Lanka Bans Sand Transport During School Hours

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) has announced new restrictions on the transportation of mineral sand during school hours, effective from September 7, 2025.

According to GSMB Director General Deepani Weerakoon, mineral transport vehicles will now be prohibited from operating between 6:30 a.m. and 7:45 a.m., and again from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on school days. 

During these hours, trucks must be parked in designated areas with adequate roadside space to avoid obstructing traffic and endangering students.

All licensed operators have been notified through GSMB’s regional offices.

The bureau has also given a three-week grace period for transporters to comply with the new conditions, which will be formally enforced from October 2025.