A total of 44 vehicles, including Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) and private buses, were temporarily removed from service by the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) during a special inspection conducted along the Hatton–Kandy main road on June 19.
The inspection, carried out in the Bagatholuwa area, covered 115 vehicles and aimed to enhance the safety and quality of public transport while minimizing the risk of road accidents.
Vehicles found to be emitting excessive smoke, mechanically defective, or otherwise deemed unroadworthy were suspended from operation. Inspectors also ordered the removal of unauthorized and hazardous modifications—particularly in buses—that posed threats to passenger safety.
Among the suspended vehicles were 15 buses operated by both the SLTB and private operators. The annual revenue licenses of all 44 vehicles were confiscated by the DMT. Owners have been instructed to complete necessary repairs and present the vehicles for reinspection at the same location on June 30.
The operation was led by Nuwara Eliya District Chief Motor Vehicle Inspector Jaliya Bandara and supported by officers from the DMT’s Air Emissions Inspection Division, including Inspector M. S. L. Chandana Bandara.
Police assistance was provided by Chief Inspector Viraj Withanage, Officer-in-Charge of the Ginigathhena Police, along with officers from the Traffic Division.
