Colombo, 1 August 2026 – The Sri Lanka Police has initiated a nationwide directive to rigorously enforce existing laws against the obstruction of designated bus stops, effective immediately. This move, stemming from a special Government Gazette notification, aims to significantly enhance passenger safety, improve accessibility for persons with disabilities, and alleviate traffic congestion across the island.
The announcement addresses a long-standing issue where bus drivers are frequently compelled to stop their vehicles on the main roadway. This dangerous practice is a direct consequence of other vehicles being parked illicitly at designated bus stops, which are specifically intended for public transport buses to safely pick up and drop off passengers. Such obstructions not only impede the smooth flow of traffic but also pose a considerable risk to the safety of commuters, particularly during peak hours.
Prioritising Accessibility and Safety
The urgency of this enforcement has been further underscored by the recent introduction of wheelchair-accessible bus services. When bus stops are blocked, persons with disabilities face immense challenges and are often placed in precarious situations while attempting to board or alight. This new directive is crucial to ensure that these vital services can operate effectively and safely for all citizens, upholding the principles of inclusive public transport.
Key Regulations from the Government Gazette
The special Government Gazette notification outlines specific prohibitions regarding vehicle parking near bus stops:
- For standard bus stops without dedicated bays: Parking is strictly prohibited within 30 metres of the bus stop and within 15 metres of its exit point.
- For bus stops equipped with bus bays: Parking is prohibited within 15 metres of the bus stop and within 10 metres of its exit point.
These regulations are designed to create sufficient clear space, allowing public transport buses to manoeuvre into and out of bus stops safely and efficiently.
Police Stations Instructed to Take Legal Action
The Sri Lanka Police has drawn significant attention to this critical issue. All police stations across the country have received clear instructions to take appropriate legal action against any driver found parking or leaving vehicles in a manner that obstructs designated bus stops. The emphasis is on proactive enforcement to deter violations and ensure compliance with the new regulations.
The ultimate goal of these stringent measures is multifaceted: to guarantee that public transport buses can consistently stop at their designated locations, to enable passengers to board and alight in a secure environment, and to contribute to a substantial reduction in unnecessary traffic congestion, thereby improving urban mobility for everyone.
The DailyFC encourages all motorists to adhere to these new regulations to foster safer roads and a more efficient public transport system for Sri Lanka.
Source: Read original document