Sri Lankan cabinet approves bus fare revision

The Sri Lankan cabinet has granted approval for a revision of bus fares, a move that aligns with the National Transport Commission's mandate to adjust fares annually on July 1st. This decision comes after a committee appointed by the commission presented recommendations for updating the existing fare formula and structure.

The fare revision takes into account several critical economic factors. These include the continuous fluctuations in fuel prices, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, and associated operating costs. Additionally, the impact of the US dollar's exchange rate on the price of bus spare parts and the operational differences between buses running on highways and the newly introduced low-floor Lanka Metro Transit buses were considered.

The committee's recommendations, which were subsequently approved by the cabinet, also factored in a fuel price revision implemented on June 30, 2026. The overarching goal is to ensure the continuous provision of transportation services to the public while safeguarding the stability of the bus industry.

The proposal was presented to the cabinet by the Minister of Transport, Highways, and Urban Development, aiming to update the current bus fare formula (cost index) and fare structure. This comprehensive approach seeks to balance the needs of the public for reliable transport with the economic realities faced by the bus operators.