Private bus operators threaten to strike

Private bus operators of Sri Lanka have threatened to launch an island wide strike action calling for an increase in bus fares.

President of the Private Bus Operators’ Association (PBOA), Gemunu Wijeratne said they are in the process of deciding on the date to hold the strike. Wijeratne notes that the government has failed to address the demands of the private bus operators and has not responded by the deadline issued by them.

The PBOA last month announced that the government would be given till 14 December to respond to their demand of a fare hike or a diesel subsidy.  Meanwhile, Transport Minister Kumar Welgama has told parliament during the budget debate that the bus fares do not need to be increased since private bus operators have been granted relief through the 2012 budget proposals. (Colombo Page)