Private bus companies want the government to delay a new safety rule for drivers. The regulation requires all bus drivers to wear seat belts starting July 1. Companies say many older buses do not have the right equipment for seat belts. They need more time to add seat belts to these vehicles. The change will cost money and take weeks to complete.
Engineer P.A. Chandrapala leads the National Transport Commission and announced the new rule recently. Bus operators agree that driver safety matters but say the timeline is too short. Many buses on Sri Lankan roads are several years old and were built without seat belt systems. Adding these safety devices requires special work and new parts. Companies must hire mechanics to install the equipment properly.
Bus owners asked government officials to give them extra time before enforcing the law. They want a grace period to upgrade their older vehicles without facing penalties. The companies pointed out that the transport commission cannot change the rule on its own. Higher government authorities must approve any delays to the July 1 start date. Bus operators hope officials will consider their request and extend the deadline.
The new regulation aims to protect drivers from injuries during accidents or sudden stops. Safety experts support requiring seat belts for all commercial vehicle operators. Bus companies understand the benefits but need practical help to meet the new standards.
Engineer P.A. Chandrapala leads the National Transport Commission and announced the new rule recently. Bus operators agree that driver safety matters but say the timeline is too short. Many buses on Sri Lankan roads are several years old and were built without seat belt systems. Adding these safety devices requires special work and new parts. Companies must hire mechanics to install the equipment properly.
Bus owners asked government officials to give them extra time before enforcing the law. They want a grace period to upgrade their older vehicles without facing penalties. The companies pointed out that the transport commission cannot change the rule on its own. Higher government authorities must approve any delays to the July 1 start date. Bus operators hope officials will consider their request and extend the deadline.
The new regulation aims to protect drivers from injuries during accidents or sudden stops. Safety experts support requiring seat belts for all commercial vehicle operators. Bus companies understand the benefits but need practical help to meet the new standards.
