President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Monday said the government aims to build a comfortable, safe, efficient, and reliable public transport system, as 541 new appointments were granted to the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB).

The President made these remarks while attending a ceremony at Temple Trees where appointment letters were presented to 199 newly recruited bus drivers and 342 conductors representing all districts of the country.

Dissanayake said the government is currently formulating a national policy to strengthen public transport and improve services for commuters. He noted that plans are also being prepared to introduce new buses and gradually phase out older vehicles from the transport system.

He further stated that a strong public transport network is essential to reduce household transport expenses, vehicle imports, traffic congestion, and environmental pollution.

The President also highlighted the importance of improving the behaviour and professionalism of drivers and conductors, noting that the safety and confidence of passengers depend on their conduct.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Transport Board Chief Executive Officer M.A.N. Dhammika Rathna said the SLTB currently operates around 7,130 buses, with more than 70 percent of them being over 10 years old.

Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake and several government officials were also present at the event. (Newswire)

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