SLTB loses Rs. 6 m after using controversial diesel

Ishara MUDUGAMUWA

Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) has incurred a loss of Rs 6 million due to the use of fuel that is currently subjected to the controversy Transport Minister Kumara Welgama said addressing the media yesterday at the SLTB headoffice.

The minister said that 10 buses operating on the Southern Expressway were malfunctioning and lost 38 trips due to the breakdowns. About 250 normal buses were also rendered inoperative and lost 281 journeys.

"The SLTB had to spend Rs. 0.6 million to replace the diesel filters. The SLTB is discussing with the petroleum ministry to get compensation for the damage." he said.

The minister also said that six train engines were also damaged as a result of using the sub-standard fuel.