Cashless Commute: Bank Card Payments Coming to Public Buses

COLOMBO (News 1st); In a step toward modernizing Sri Lanka’s public transport sector, the Ministry of Transport, has announced the introduction of bank card-based fare payments for selected passenger buses starting November 30.

The initiative is designed to minimize fare-related irregularities and enhance transparency in the ticketing process. 

From the implementation date, passengers travelling on buses equipped with automated ticketing machines will be able to pay their fares using locally issued bank cards, including debit and credit cards.

This move comes in response to longstanding concerns over fare fraud and the lack of accountability in revenue collection within the bus industry.

For years, operators—particularly in the private sector—have struggled with unreliable cash-based systems that hinder accurate income tracking and discourage investment in service improvements.

The government’s decision to adopt bank card payments bypasses earlier attempts to introduce dedicated transport cards, which faced technical and logistical hurdles. 

By leveraging existing banking infrastructure, the new system offers a practical and scalable solution that aligns with the country’s digital transformation goals.

Passengers will not be required to obtain new cards or register for separate systems. 

Instead, they can use their existing bank cards to make secure, traceable payments directly at the point of boarding, provided the bus is equipped with a ticketing machine.