The Megapolis and Western Development Ministry has taken measures to introduce Bus Priority Lanes (BPL) for Colombo city and the suburbs only during the rush hours from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. with the intention of reducing traffic congestion, Megapolis and Western Development Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka said.
He made this observation at a media conference held at Megapolis and Western Development Ministry in Suhurupaya, Battaramulla yesterday.
“Improvement of public transport system of the city is the best way to reduce traffic congestion. A one-week pilot project on Bus Priority Lane will be introduced from Rajagiriya to Ayurveda junction.
Considering the success of this pilot project, the Ministry has taken measures to introduce BPL's to other areas also. This will also improve road discipline,” the Minister said.
Two BPLs will be implemented on August 15 from the Kurusa Junction in Moratuwa to the Katubedda junction and on the Galle Road section starting near the Savoy Cinema, Wellawatte up to Bambalapitiya junction.
Bus priority lanes from Katubedda Junction to Maliban Junction and Bambalapitiya Junction to Pittala Junction will be introduced on August 22.
Priority lanes between Polduwa Junction and Borella Ayurveda junction and Town Hall to Thummulla Junction will be implemented from August 29. BPLs from Technical junction to Colombo Fort and Colombo Fort to Slave Island will be implemented on September 5. BPL between Slave Island and Colombo Fort will be implemented on Spetember 12 and Borella to Maradana will be introduced on November 30.