Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that officials engaged in the transport sector, together with all others working in the field, are dedicated to improving the country’s transport services as a sector that is responsive to the needs of the people.

The Prime Minister made these remarks on Wednesday (October 8)  in Parliament, participating in the debate on the supplementary estimates of the Ministry of Transport related to the 2026 Budget.

The Prime Minister further stated that the supplementary estimate proposal presented by the Ministry of Transport serves as a good example of transparency and financial discipline within a ministry. When certain projects face obstacles toward the end of the year, obtaining allocations through a supplementary estimate reflects sound financial management and accountability.

She noted that in the past, projects were not always carried out through proper budgetary allocations, and the Ministry of Transport had long been perceived as one of the most corrupt institutions in the country. However, this perception is now changing, with steps being taken to eliminate corruption and malpractice.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the Ministry of Transport, which is responsible for public transportation and highways, two critical areas of national infrastructure, is now being systematically strengthened to better serve the needs of the public. The Prime Minister commended the Ministry’s efforts to identify its challenges and implement appropriate solutions, adding that this supplementary allocation provides an opportunity to further transform the Ministry into an efficient, people-oriented institution that works in the public interest.

Highlighting the connection between poor financial management and the country’s economic crisis, the Prime Minister stated that weaknesses in project identification and implementation had caused serious setbacks to sectors such as transport and highways. Many projects in the past were poorly planned or executed due to decisions made for personal or corrupt motives rather than in the public interest. Consequently, numerous projects were delayed or left incomplete.

She further explained that similar issues were observed across other ministries as well, requiring the Government to reallocate funds to continue or complete previously suspended or abandoned projects. This, she noted, is one of the underlying factors of the broader economic challenges the country faces. The supplementary allocations, therefore, are intended to complete projects in a way that minimizes harm to the country and its people.

The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of improving public transportation so that people can travel safely, efficiently, and comfortably. She stressed that public transport must be accessible to all, including children, women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, and expressed appreciation for the steps taken by the Ministry to address these needs.

The Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya mentioned that the Ministry of Education has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Transport as part of efforts to improve school infrastructure. The Prime Minister noted that developing school infrastructure is not limited to constructing buildings—it also involves improving roads leading to schools, enhancing public transport services for students, and ensuring their quality and safety.

The Prime Minister stated that discussions have been initiated with the Ministry of Transport to address transportation issues affecting remote and rural schools that lack proper access roads. These efforts are essential to safeguard the transportation rights and safety of children in those areas.

She added that in the past, school transport drivers and attendants showed a strong sense of responsibility and care toward their passengers, ensuring children’s safety with dedication. She emphasized that this sense of responsibility and attitude should be revived and welcomed the Ministry’s current efforts to encourage such positive change.

The Prime Minister further highlighted the importance of improving facilities for persons with disabilities and senior citizens at railway stations and within trains, as well as ensuring adequate sanitary facilities for passengers.

(Prime Minister’s Media Division)