Measures to Curb Harassment on Public Transport

Measures to Curb Harassment of Women on Public Transport, Says Minister Bimal Rathnayake

by Staff Writer 24-07-2025 | 9:36 AM

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Transport, Civil Aviation, and Highways Minister Bimal Rathnayake announced that a series of measures will be introduced in the near future to reduce incidents of harassment faced by women on public transportation.

He made these remarks while participating in the launch of the National Campaign to Prevent Sexual Harassment in Public Transport and Public Spaces, held yesterday in Colombo.

The Minister emphasized that transport-related harassment is a serious issue that causes many women to miss out on opportunities and refrain from participating in essential activities due to fear and discomfort. 

He noted that for many, simply attending a course or program that ends in the evening becomes impossible because of the risks associated with traveling back home late at night.

Minister Rathnayake further stated that the responsibility lies with the Ministry to take proactive steps to address the issue. 

He stressed that harassment doesn’t occur solely due to traffic congestion, but is often facilitated by overcrowding, which allows perpetrators to act under the cover of anonymity.

The Minister added that a major concern is the lack of social solidarity. 

He observed that in most cases, no one intervenes when harassment takes place on a bus or train or at a bus stop. 

This silence is partly due to the structure of the bus industry, where even conductors or drivers may threaten passengers who speak out in defense of victims.

He emphasized the need to regulate the public transport sector more effectively, adding that fear of retaliation prevents many from resisting harassment or supporting those who do.

To address these concerns, the Minister revealed several upcoming initiatives, including the implementation of GPS tracking systems on all long-distance buses. 

Additionally, a dedicated WhatsApp number will soon be made available on every bus in Sri Lanka, allowing passengers to report incidents directly and discreetly.

The Minister of Transport, Civil Aviation, and Highways noted that these steps are part of a broader effort by the Ministry to create a safer and more accountable public transport system.