Anura Kumara Dissanayake has called for a rapid transformation of the country’s transport system to deliver a more efficient, safe and technology-driven public service.
He made these remarks during a meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat with officials from the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, according to the President’s Media Division.
The President said the entire transport framework must evolve to provide citizens with a dignified and reliable service. He stressed that reform must focus on long-term efficiency and public benefit.
Officials briefed the President on a strategic plan built around five pillars. These include economic competitiveness, environmental sustainability, digital transformation, social equity and accessibility, and safety and security.
To address severe congestion in Colombo, the government plans to introduce the Lanka Metro Transit bus service. Authorities are currently developing the required infrastructure. The buses are expected to arrive by August this year.
The pilot project will operate along six main roads surrounding Colombo. The programme will begin in the Western Province and later expand to the Galle and Kandy districts. Over the next three years, the service aims to reach eight major cities.
The initiative seeks to reduce the daily inflow of private vehicles into Colombo. It also aims to encourage greater use of public transport. The President emphasized the importance of dedicated bus priority lanes to ensure efficiency.
He also proposed replacing fragmented bus operations with transport companies under a cluster model. He stated that passengers seek quality service, regardless of operational structure. If profitability issues arise, the government may provide support.
The President further highlighted the need to develop Multi-modal Transport Hubs around the railway network. Discussions included modernising the Kelani Valley Railway line and introducing an electronic system for expressways.
The meeting also reviewed transport sector employee welfare, regulatory reforms for three-wheelers and school vans, improvements to the ‘Sisu Sariya’ programme, and the establishment of a National Centre for Transport Research and Development.
Senior ministers and transport sector officials attended the discussion.
Last modified: February 13, 2026
