Private buses on strike once again

Colombo (News 1st) - A group of private bus employees are planning to launch a strike from 12 midnight tonight(August 15). The strike centers around a number of demands including the reduction of traffic fines that were increased. New spot fines were introduced for 33 traffic violations with effect from 15 July 2018. Organizer of the All Ceylon Private Bus Operators Association, U.K. Kumararathne stated that although the relevant authorities were notified of these issues they did not provide a fair solution. The minimum fine was raised to Rs. 500 and the maximum spot fine was increased to Rs. 3000. According to the Association, due to the traffic congestion on the roads and the functions of the law enforcing agencies, the new spot fines have severely inconvenienced their operations. However, the Private bus owners association has decided not to support the strike action. The Chairman of the Inter-Provincial Private Bus Association has also stated that they will not join the strike. When inquired from the All Island Private Bus Union Federation an official said that a decision on whether or not to support the strike will be taken tonight. The Secretary to the Ministry of Transport J.S. Withanage stated that traffic fines were increased with the aimd of creating more disciplined drivers. He further stated that the Ministry has not been informed of any strike.