The Government has decided to unveil several transport-related measures next week to help maintain safe transport for public during the COVID-19 pandemic. These measures also include compensation measures for public transport operators.
Transport State Minister Dilum Amunugama said according to new measures only one passenger will be allowed to travel in a double seat.
However, measures will be taken to increase bus fares by one and a half of the normal fee.This will only be implemented in areas identified by health authorities as such measures are needed to mitigate the risk.
“Bus owners are demanding an increase in bus fares. But the passenger does not have the confidence to travel in public transport due to fears of contracting COVID-19. Therefore, the first thing to do is to ensure the safety of the passenger while travelling in buses, three wheelers and school vans under the present condition,” Amunugama said.
Passenger transport buses will have to keep two bottles of sanitizers on both doors.The passenger must be identified by a QR code. Buses must be sterilised at the bus stop before passengers can be loaded.
The State Minister said the transport operators too will be looked after. He said action will be taken to reduce annual charges, a loan of Rs. 300,000 on concessional basis, leasing concession for up to six months are some of the facilities given to transport operators.
However, these measure will only be implemented in certain areas according to threat perception predicted by health authorities.
