Sri Lanka launches expanded Metro Bus service in Colombo

Sri Lanka has officially launched an expanded Metro Bus service in the Western Province, deploying a fleet of up to 121 buses across seven routes in and around Colombo. The initiative, inaugurated under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, aims to reduce traffic congestion and modernize public transport through scheduled services and designated stops.

The initial network covers approximately 188.7 kilometres, including routes such as Makumbura to Pettah and Athurugiriya to Colombo Fort. To support the system, the government is considering an urban transport permit system and a ‘Park & Ride’ scheme to encourage motorists to use public transit.

Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake announced that the government expects to import 50 additional buses before the Sinhala and Hindu New Year, with plans to extend services to Jaffna, Kandy, and Galle. Furthermore, the Chinese government has agreed to provide 100 buses to Lanka Metro Transit following recent diplomatic discussions. Of the current fleet, eight buses were provided by the Government of Japan.