Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, Bimal Rathnayake, announced the introduction of an online seat booking system for long-distance bus passengers, enabling them to reserve seats in advance.
Speaking at a media briefing held today (05) at “Maganeguma Mahamedura” in Battaramulla, the Minister stated that improving daily transportation convenience remains a key priority of the Government.
The new system, launched as a pilot project for private buses, allows passengers to check schedules and book seats from home. It is expected to reduce common issues such as delays, loss of reserved seats, sudden trip cancellations, and excessive service charges.
Under the new method, the booking fee has been significantly reduced to around Rs. 30 per seat, compared to the previous charges of Rs. 200–300.
The platform has been developed with technical support from SLT-MOBITEL. Its Chairman, Dr. Mothilal De Silva, noted that the company is committed to providing digital solutions to public needs beyond traditional telecommunications services.
Digital Economy Ministry Advisor Sumudu Rathnayake stated that plans are underway to integrate all bookings into a centralized system in the future.
The service is currently available at selected transport hubs including Makumbura, Galle, and Kandy, with plans to expand islandwide upon successful implementation.
Passengers can book seats via the website www.busticket.gov.lk or by calling 0112001266. Facilities are also available at the Makumbura Multimodal Transport Centre.
Payments can be made using VISA and Master cards, with QR and mobile wallet payment options expected to be introduced soon.
