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| Tuesday, 27 April 2004 |
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Shot in the arm to revive transport sector By Sudarshana Perera The Ministry of Transport in the UPFA Government will map out a working strategy in consultation with transport advisory bodies, union leaders and other authorities to revive the public transport sector while making relevant institutions productive, efficient and profitable, Minister of Transport, Felix Perera told the Daily News yesterday. He said that eliminating corruption and other waste were a challenge before the Government and assured he would thoroughly deal with the subject irrespective of political bias. "We have stopped all ad-hoc promotions after the last elections and promotions would be carried out based on qualifications and service and promotions would be managed by a panel", he said. The Minister said the Government is not intending to privatise the railways and SLCTB but wants to make them profitable and service oriented. "The government's coffers are pumping around Rs. 200 million to pay wages and other expenses for the Central Transport Board (SLCTB). It cannot continue this scheme forever, so I have discussed with Union leaders and other officials to win their support for our endeavours to make it a profitable venture", he said. He said that since the transport sector stagnated sans any improvements during the last two years the previous regime was planning to privatise those sectors. When asked to comment as to what measures the ministry is intending to take regarding the Ibis deal, the Minister said he could not come to conclusion as his legal advisors were studying the issue in detail. He said that his ministry is planning to introduce a transport network combining trains and buses to provide hassle free service particularly for schoolchildren. We will also set up a 24-hour operation room at the ministry to co-ordinate transport activities of the SLCTB and Railway sector. The public can also seek assistance from this new service. He said that transport being a vital sector of a country, the transport sector in Sri Lanka needs urgent attention to introduce modern features and international support would also be sought to bring in foreign advice and technology. He also said that the re-structuring of the management at the Railway Authority is under way and competent personnel will head important sections to guarantee an improved transport system for the public. "I am in the process of addressing urgent issues which need immediate attention to resurrect the transport sector and other sector developments would be prioritised in consultation with the Cabinet", he said. |
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