Sasanka De Silva Pannipitiya

The simple act of paying a bus fare in Sri Lanka has become a perplexing puzzle.

For a minimum fare of Rs 28, handing over a Rs 100 note results in a Rs 70 return.

Where does the remaining Rs 2 disappear to?

It’s a question that has puzzled commuters and raised concerns about transparency and efficiency in public transportation.

The answer lies in the antiquated cash-based system.

The unaccounted-for Rs 2, while seemingly insignificant, represents a systemic inefficiency. It neither benefits the loss-making Ceylon Transport Board (CTB) nor the passenger.

This inefficiency is a stark reminder of the need for a modern, electronic payment system.

Such a system would not only ensure accurate fare calculation but also streamline revenue collection.

By eliminating the need for physical cash handling, service providers could reduce their operational costs and potentially decrease their reliance on subsidies.

Moreover, electronic payments could help mitigate the risk of fare evasion, a significant problem that contributes to the financial burden on public transportation systems.

The reluctance to adopt electronic payments can be attributed to several factors, including concerns about union resistance and potential political backlash.

However, the continued reliance on outdated systems is a disservice to both commuters and the public transportation sector.

The new regime has an opportunity to address this issue and implement a more efficient and transparent payment system.

By taking bold steps to modernize public transportation, the government can improve the quality of service, reduce costs, and enhance the overall commuting experience for Sri Lankans.

Sasanka De Silva,

Pannipitiya.