Metro Bus Service to Expand to Seven Routes with 104 New Buses from September 29

COLOMBO, Sept. 28 — Sri Lanka’s Metro Bus service will expand to seven routes with the introduction of 104 newly deployed modern buses from September 29, as authorities seek to ease traffic congestion in Colombo and provide a more convenient and safer public transport service.

The expanded service will be centred around Colombo and will cover several major commuter corridors connecting the capital with surrounding areas.

The Metro Bus service, which has so far operated on only two routes, will be expanded to seven routes with the addition of the new fleet.

The routes include:

• Millennium City – Colombo Fort
• Dematagoda – Panadura
• Thalangama Depot (Battaramulla) – Ekala
• Makumbura (Kesbewa) – Pettah
• Kollupitiya and other major Colombo-area routes

Authorities said the new services are intended to provide passengers with safer, more comfortable and reliable public transport, while encouraging commuters to reduce their dependence on private vehicles.

The new bus service will be formally launched on September 29 under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Lanka Metro Transit said all necessary arrangements have been completed for the launch.

A key objective of the programme is to reduce the number of private vehicles entering Colombo, particularly vehicles carrying only a single passenger, and thereby help ease congestion during peak hours.

Bus priority lanes to be strictly enforced

Alongside the expansion of the Metro Bus service, police will strengthen enforcement of seven designated bus priority lanes in the Western Province from September 29.

According to police, the bus priority lanes will be strictly enforced during peak periods from 6.00 a.m. to 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m.

During these hours, the designated lanes will be reserved for Metro buses and other passenger transport buses. Other vehicles will not be permitted to use or park in the lanes, except where necessary to avoid an emergency or accident, navigate severe congestion or make a required turn.

Police have warned that motorists who violate the bus priority lane regulations will face strict checks and legal action.

Authorities have urged motorists to comply with the regulations and keep the designated lanes clear during the specified hours to facilitate the smooth operation of public transport.