The All Ceylon School Children’s Transport Association has decided to increase school transport fees by 5%, with the new rates coming into effect from today (10).
Speaking at a press briefing, the President of the Association, Lalith Chandrasiri Fernando, said that although fuel prices had been revised several times in the past, transport fees had remained unchanged due to the difficult economic conditions in the country.
However, he noted that the latest increase of Rs. 22 per litre in fuel prices has left transport providers with no alternative but to revise their fares.
Fernando added that the decision was taken following extensive discussions with other relevant transport associations.
He explained that under the revised rates, if a student’s current monthly transport fee is Rs. 10,000, it will increase by Rs. 500.
“Fuel prices were increased suddenly overnight. As a transport association, we have collectively decided to raise fees by 5%. The Rs. 22 increase in fuel prices has had a significant impact on the transport sector. Although we reached this decision with great reluctance, it became necessary after consultations with other associations and relevant officials,” he said.
