The minimum fare of the state-owned bus operator in Sri Lanka will be Rs 9 from that date, he said.

Addressing an event in Kundasale, he stated that the fares would be increased due to the rising costs at the SLTB.

The deputy minister further said that the government has absolutely no plans to privatise the Sri Lanka Transport Board.

Last Thursday, the Cabinet approved the proposed 6% bus fare increase with effect from August 01.

The decision was made after a report with respect to the proposed bus fare revision based on the annual bus fare amendment was submitted to the Cabinet.

(Derana)