Moves to upgrade public service under Nagenahira Navodaya

COLOMBO: The Government has initiated several development programmes simultaneously under the Nagenahira Navodaya with the objective of returning like normality in the East.

These programmes include development of roadways, power supply, health, housing, transport and other infrastructure facilities. As a first step to these programmes, three SLTB bus depots were opened on Thursday at Kalmunai, Valachchenai and Batticaloa.

Minister Dullas Alahapperuma speaking at the opening of the bus depots said the SLTB inaugurated in 1958 deteriorated due to mismanagement of subsequent regime has now reawakened from hibernation only under the Mahinda Chinthanaya.

“We have now stopped the practice of promoting employees on the basis of political affiliations. Steps have also been taken to reduce bus fare in 120 routes. Bus fare from Kalmunai to Colombo which stood earlier, at Rs. 391 is now only Rs. 270,” the Minister citing an example.

Basil Rajapaksa who is a Senior Advisor to the President said the development of the East has commenced once again under this Government. Seventeen new bridges have been built in 17 places where there were only boats to ferry people between Armugam Bay and Pulmudai, he said.

“We are taking every possible step to enhance the living standards of the people in the East with the support of the international community. Paddy fields would be cultivated and the entire East fully developed,” he said.

Ministers Lasantha Alagiyawanna, Ameer Ali, Mayen Mustapa, Faisal Caseem, D. Nijamudeen and several officials participated at the occasion.

The second stage of this programme will be the establishment of 100 model depots in the East under the Mahinda Chintanaya. One hundred depots are to be completed within four years.

SLTB, established in 1958 comprising 10 depots with 5,200 buses had its golden era from 1970 - 1977 but it deteriorating due to mismanagement.

This programme is meant to provide the public with a satisfactory service. The strength of the present fleet is 4,700 buses. But with President Mahinda Rajapaksa assuming duties, 2,000 more buses were added afresh. The fleet is to be increased up to 5,300 buses from January 1.

There are only 37 buses at the Kalmunai depot and only 17 are roadworthy. Under this programme, five new buses to Kalmunai, 10 buses to Batticaloa and five buses to Valachchenai would be added.