Coin shortage affects transactions

Edward WEERASINGHE, Kelaniya group corr

The scarcity of coins is adversely affecting small scale business and monetary transactions among people.

Retail shop owners in Kelaniya, Kiribathgoda and Kadawata said they are unable to carry out business activities due to the shortage of coins.

Nuwan Chamith, a retailer in hardware and electrical items in Kiribathgoda town said he cannot pay the exact balance to customers due to the dearth of coins. Meanwhile, bus commuters in Kelaniya complain they are unable to tender the exact fare and conductors do not return the balance.

Commuters said they lose a considerable amount of money on public transportation.