The additional busses will start operation from today (April 08) from Bastian Mawatha bus stand from April 08 to 15 and from the bus stations in other areas from April 15 to 25.

The Western Province Transport Authority had also promised to operate buses from Katunayake, Biyagama, Avissawella, Piliyandala, Matugama, Horana, Panadura and Maharagama for the benefit of garment factory workers.

Buses operating on the Southern Expressway would commence journey at 5.00 am from Kadawatha, Maharagama and Kaduwela during the festive season, Hemachandra said. Extra buses would also operate from the Bastian Mawatha Bus Stand to Matara, Akuressa, Deniyaya, Deiyandara, Hakmana and Kataragama.

Colombo-Kandy AC buses will operate via Katunayake - Colombo Expressway via Minuwangoda and Nittambuwa. No additional fare would be charged.

Total of 6,000 buses would operate on outstation routes during the festive season.