Colombo, Sri Lanka – In a historic policy shift, the Sri Lankan government has decided to recruit women for key positions in Sri Lanka Railways and the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB), including as railway guards, train drivers, and bus drivers, Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation Bimal Rathnayake announced in Parliament today (07).
Rathnayake emphasized that the government expects to see highly efficient female railway guards, train drivers, and bus drivers by next year. The decision was made in recognition of International Women’s Day, which falls on March 8, as part of efforts to promote gender equality in the transport sector.
Furthermore, the Minister expressed the government’s ambition to entrust the country’s school bus services to women, recognizing their commitment to safety and reliability in public transport operations.
This initiative marks a significant step forward for gender inclusivity in Sri Lanka’s male-dominated transport sector, opening up new employment opportunities for women and challenging traditional workforce norms.
