Private Bus Associations Call Off Planned Strike Following Successful Talks with Acting IGP

 

Private bus associations in Sri Lanka have canceled their planned island-wide strike after productive discussions with Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya. The strike was initially organized to protest the police's enforcement measures under the "Clean Sri Lanka" program, which the associations felt were overly stringent and beyond the police's authority.

During the meeting held at Police Headquarters, the bus associations expressed their concerns regarding the intensified traffic operations. In response, the Acting IGP granted a three-month grace period for the associations to comply with the new regulations. This concession led to the decision to call off the strike, ensuring that private bus services will continue without interruption.

The "Clean Sri Lanka" initiative involves special vehicle inspections by police, with officers in civilian attire monitoring buses for traffic violations. The program aims to enhance road safety and reduce accidents by enforcing stricter compliance with traffic laws.

The private bus associations had previously warned of an island-wide strike if their concerns were not addressed, citing undue pressure from the police and a lack of proper infrastructure for bus operations.

With the agreement reached, both the police and the bus associations aim to work collaboratively to improve public transportation services while ensuring compliance with traffic regulations for the safety of all road users.