The joint timetable proposed for SLTB and private buses, has become a controversial topic in the country. Newsfirst made inquiries into the matter.

The joint timetable system was introduced to prevent competition between SLTB and private bus drivers.The National Transport Commission explained why they have been unable to implement this timetable as yet.

Chairman of National Transport Commission, Roshan Gunawardena said; “We would like to implement the joint timetable at any instant. But this has been stopped because of the protests by SLTB trade unions. The Chairman of the SLTB and other authorities must take responsibility for this. We have not received the SLTB timetable for next week. We are circularly implementing the timetable for private buses and are continuing to issue permits.”

Chairman of SLTB, Sashi Welgama said, “We have continuously asked for timetables which divide it to 60 and 40 percent. But instead of giving us this timetable, they are asking us to adopt this joint timetable. What we have said since then is that we want a 60/40 timetable.”

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