Commuters face heavier wallets as bus fares are set to rise by at least 15 percent following a massive Rs. 79 hike in diesel prices, with operators warning of service disruptions without relief.
Bus fares are expected to increase by at least 15 percent following the sharp rise in diesel prices, the Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association announced. Chairman Gemunu Wijeratne stated that revised minimum and long distance fares will be announced today, with commuters bracing for higher travel costs.
The price of Lanka Auto Diesel was increased by Rs. 79 last night, reaching Rs. 382 per litre. Wijeratne noted that despite recent fuel quota adjustments, operators are struggling to absorb rising operational costs without a fare revision. He also claimed that many private buses have already ceased operations due to the fuel price surge, warning of further service disruptions if relief measures are not implemented.
The National Transport Commission confirmed that revised bus fares aligned with the latest fuel hike will be released today. Director General Nilan Miranda said the new fare structure will be announced during the course of the day, finally responding to the diesel price increase that had initially gone unaddressed.
