Special mobile connections for SLTB workers

Irangika Range

The Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) signed an agreement with Sri Lanka Telecom Mobitel to improve SLTB’s communication facilities by introducing effective, reasonable and special Mobitel packages for SLTB officials.

Addressing the occasion, Road Passenger Transport Minister Lasantha Alagiyawanna said the Ministry expects to save Rs. 2.8 million annually spent for its communication facility through this endeavour.

The Minister said Sri Lanka Telecom Mobitel is SLTB’s official mobile service provider. The company has agreed to provide 500 special mobile phone connections to SLTB.

This service would improve the communication system at SLTB and enable to maintain a combined network among 103 depots, regional offices and the Ministry to provide effective and satisfactory bus services 24 hours.

“The SLTB has to provide a satisfactory bus service to commuters. To achieve this, it is essential to adopt the latest technology for daily work. It is difficult to change some traditional attitudes of workers.

But we are in the process of taking stern action to implement correct mechanisms and policies for the benefit of the State transport sector,” the Minister said. Mobile phone connections will be provided to four heads in each depot, heads of regional offices and Departments to implement decisions speedily.

He said several people died in Peraliya tragedy due to poor communication.

SLTB Chairman Tudor Dayaratne said this will help upgrade efficiency at SLTB.

“Providing safe and satisfactory bus service to commuters will be fulfilled with this endeavour,” he said.

Sri Lanka Telecom and Sri Lanka Telecom Mobitel, Chairperson Lesha de Silva Chandrasena also spoke.