Increasing demand for private modes of transport

Gayan Kanchana

Having successfully overcome the 30 years old political instability and terrorism, our economy is now looking forward to take a leap forward. Plans are afoot to drive the economy fast, aiming at achieving growth rates over eight percent in the years to come. All sectors of the economy are gradually being organized to shoulder their share of the burden in this endeavour. Those in the industry of motor trade and motor traffic management also have to gear themselves to face this challenge, said Motor Traffic Commissioner B D L Dharmapriya addressing the 91th Annual General Meeting of Ceylon Motor Traders Association (CMTA).

"Increasing economic growth is associated with higher per capita incomes, which will have a direct bearing on the motor vehicle ownership of any society. Sri Lanka, though having been largely dependent upon public transportation during its first few decades is showing an increasing trend to go for private modes of transport. Needless to say, this trend will grow faster in the years to come. While such growth will be of interest to the motor traders and industrialists associated with the sector, it is my belief that we should not regret the challenge that would emerge out that trend.

"Firstly more use of private modes of transport will cause increasing demand for vehicle imports, which will lead to having more vehicles in our roads. This will cause increased pollution and congestion. Our registered vehicle population at present of 3.9 million with an active vehicle fleet of 2.6 million is bound to increase significantly in the years to come," he said.