list.lk
Bus Fares Remain Unchanged Despite Diesel Price Hike, NTC Assures
The Pulse
PoliticsEconomyHOTSunday, May 31, 2026

Bus Fares Remain Unchanged Despite Diesel Price Hike, NTC Assures

TLDR

  • Bus fares unchanged despite Rs. 15-20 diesel price hike.

  • Fuel hike below 4% threshold means no bus fare revision.

  • Three-wheelers to hike fares; private buses face losses.

  • NTC and Minister confirm bus fares remain static.

The National Transport Commission (NTC) has announced that bus fares will not be revised despite a recent increase in diesel prices. The NTC stated that the current fare formula does not necessitate an immediate hike, assuring the public that no additional burden will be placed on commuters. However, private bus operators report incurring significant daily losses, with some estimating losses of up to Rs. 1,500 on long-distance routes. In contrast, school van operators have indicated they will need to increase fares to cover the rising diesel costs.

3 Updates

Update #4\u00b7 Jun 2 · 1:01 PM

Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways Prasanna Gunasena has confirmed that bus fares will not be increased. He explained that the recent fuel price hike did not exceed the 4% threshold required by the bus fare revision formula for a fare adjustment to be considered.

Update #3\u00b7 May 31 · 1:00 PM

While bus fares are confirmed to remain unchanged, transport associations are commenting on the fuel price increase. Specifically, the National United Three-Wheeler Drivers' and Entrepreneurs' Association has indicated plans to increase three-wheeler fares, expecting the rate for the first kilometer to rise to Rs. 130.

Update #2\u00b7 May 31 · 7:30 AM

The National Transport Commission (NTC) has reaffirmed that bus fares will not be revised despite recent diesel price increases. The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) raised prices by Rs. 15 per litre for Lanka White Diesel and Rs. 20 per litre for Super Diesel, effective midnight on May 30. The NTC stated that no immediate revision is technically necessary according to the scientific bus fare formula and aims to prevent additional financial burdens on passengers. However, the Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association has urged authorities to consider an interim fare revision.

WhatsAppPost on X

Pulse Check — How do you feel?

Sign in to vote

Discussion

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!