SLTB collects Rs. 1.2 m from free riders

Rajmi Manatunga

COLOMBO: The Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) has recovered over Rs. 1.2 million during the past seven months as fines from ticketless travellers.

SLTB Deputy Manager Operations C. Alahakoon said the staggering amount of fines were collected by the Board's flying squad during checks conducted from January to July this year.

According to him, the highest amount of fines amounting to over Rs 189,000 were recorded in June while the figure exceeded Rs 150,000 in each of the seven months.

"During the same period, our flying squads also apprehended 145 bus conductors who engaged in various malpractices including overcharging and not issuing tickets to commuters," he said.

The raids were carried out by 112 SLTB flying squad teams which comprised 512 personnel.