Bus fares to increase by 12 percent from July 6th, minimum Rs. 34.

Considering the high operational costs prevailing locally and the changes in the international market, the National Transport Commission and the Lanka Private Bus Owners' Association (LPBOA) have agreed to increase private bus fares in the country, effective from July 06. Accordingly, Mr. Gemunu Wijeratne, President of the Lanka Private Bus Owners' Association, states that the current minimum bus fare of Rs. 30 will increase by Rs. 4 to Rs. 34.

In addition, the parties have agreed to increase the average bus fares for short and medium-distance journeys up to 100 kilometers by 12%, and fares for long-distance operations exceeding 100 kilometers by 20%.

In addition to regular bus services, this fare revision will also apply to luxury transport services, with a 12% fare increase for luxury buses operating less than 100 kilometers. Furthermore, the relevant authorities and bus associations have agreed to increase fares for luxury bus services exceeding the 100-kilometer limit by 15%.

This bus fare revision, implemented in accordance with the annual bus fare policy and effective from July 1, 2026, has received official approval from the Cabinet of Ministers. Factors such as the continuous increase in fuel prices since February due to the conflict in the Middle East, rising operational costs, constant fluctuations in the US dollar directly impacting bus spare parts prices, as well as the operation of buses on expressways and the inclusion of buses under Lanka Metro Transit Private Limited, have primarily influenced this fare revision.

To ensure continuous public transport services for passengers and to protect the bus industry amidst the current economic crisis, the National Transport Commission appointed a special committee to review and update the existing bus fare formula. Accordingly, the recommendations submitted by this committee, including the fuel price adjustments implemented on June 30, were forwarded to the Minister of Transport, Highways, and Urban Development, and subsequently received Cabinet approval.