Route permits to be cancelled for drug-using bus drivers
Posted by ONLANKA Newsroom on February 9, 2026 - 8:56 am
Route permits will be cancelled if bus owners allow drug-addicted drivers to operate buses, Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake said.
He made this statement at a meeting held at the Matara District Secretariat yesterday (February 08).
The Minister warned bus owners not to employ drivers who use drugs under any circumstances, stressing that passenger safety must come first.
He also said inspections are currently underway to identify drivers operating passenger transport services while under the influence of drugs.
As part of this program, blood and urine tests are being conducted, and a pilot project to test saliva samples has also been launched.
Latest Headlines in Sri Lanka
- CID Chief Shani Abeysekara cleared for DIG promotion by Appeals Tribunal May 13, 2026
- Fake sureties in Kapila Chandrasena bail case remanded until May 20, 2026 May 13, 2026
- Sri Lanka launches digital seed system; Minister accuses some media of undermining progress May 13, 2026
- Harsha says he will not join Government May 13, 2026
- Sri Lanka warned of over 200 mm rain as reservoirs spill May 13, 2026
Not only bus drivers & conductors in private companies & SLTB, but also the managers and perhaps, the directors should be checked for substance abuse.
Unfortunately, if done correctly, bus services will come to a grinding halt.