DIMO Chief optimistic about 2018 Budget

Diesel and Motor Engineering Plc Chairman and business leader Ranjith Pandithage said yesterday that as an organisation which believed in sustainability, the company was optimistic about the 2018 Budget presented by Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera.

Diesel and Motor Engineering Plc Chairman and business leader Ranjith Pandithage

“We find this to be a ‘sustainability friendly’ budget where a lot of positive emphasis is given to controlling vehicle emissions and clean mobility. We are also appreciative of the Government for taking steps to establish a level playing field with regard to importing vehicles to the country. This has been a long-felt need and would help the Government to improve its revenue,” Pandithage said.



It was pointed out that the Government’s emphasis on emission standards was timely. “The positive steps taken by bringing in EURO IV standards for vehicles together with safety aspects such as airbags and ABS, etc. indicate our aspiration to become a nation of responsible mobility,” he added. 

“We would also encourage the Government to evaluate the usage of batteries for electric vehicles. This refers to the quality of the batteries, properly trained personnel to safely repair them as well as the disposal of batteries. Regulation of charging points and stations, and bringing in international norms from the early stages of planning is also essential, so that the infrastructure is properly in place. This requires professionals, experts and reputed international bodies to be involved and consulted,” the DIMO Chairman said.