Public transport now an essential service

President Ranil Wickremesinghe has once again issued a gazette notice declaring transport services, including public transport, as essential services. The gazette notification, issued by the President's Secretary, Mr. Saman Ekanayake, came into effect from yesterday (13th) following the President's instructions.

According to the notification, public transport services for the conveyance of passengers and goods have been declared essential. Additionally, the gazette states that railways, including roads, bridges, culverts, and railway tracks, are considered essential services to facilitate and maintain transport services.

This is not the first time such a declaration has been made; previously, on February 13th, President Ranil Wickremesinghe had also announced these services as essential through a similar gazette.

This measure aims to ensure the smooth operation and maintenance of vital transport infrastructure and services across the country.