Sri Lanka tests online ticket booking platform for intercity bus travel

Sri Lanka has introduced a pilot programme enabling online seat reservations for long-distance bus travel, Transport and Highways Minister Bimal Rathnayake announced today (4).

During a media briefing, the Minister highlighted that buses remain the most popular mode of daily transportation in the country, even surpassing trains. However, he pointed out that passengers currently face challenges as they must visit bus terminals in person to reserve seats, complicating travel planning.

“This new system will allow passengers to reserve seats in advance and plan their journeys more efficiently. Our goal is to make daily life easier for commuters,” Rathnayake stated.

The initiative is initially being implemented through private bus operators, with plans to extend the service to the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) in the future.

Sri Lanka Telecom Chairman Mothilal De Silva mentioned that the platform was launched ahead of the New Year holiday period, in collaboration with several private sector partners. 

Under the pilot phase, key transport hubs such as Makumbura Multimodal Centre, Galle, and Kandy have been selected, with a view to expanding the system nationwide based on its success.

Passengers can reserve seats through the website www.busticket.gov.lk or by calling 0112001266. In-person assistance is also available at the Makumbura centre.

A service fee of approximately Rs. 30 will be charged, and card payment facilities are provided to facilitate transactions.

Authorities emphasised that the programme will be promoted through media campaigns, and the public is encouraged to use the service and share feedback to improve the system.

Source: The morning