Three sub-committees to address transport, highways and aviation issues

Saturday, 8 February 2025 02:03 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

In a bid to address pressing issues in the transport, highways, ports, and civil aviation sectors, the inaugural Ministerial Consultative Committee has established three sub-committees to explore legal and administrative solutions.

The decision was made during a Parliamentary meeting on 24 January, chaired by Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation Minister Bimal Ratnayake.

Speaking at the meeting, Committee Chair Ratnayake said the Government intends to introduce comprehensive reforms to modernise and streamline transportation, infrastructure, and aviation services – sectors critical to the country’s economic growth and public mobility.

The first Ministerial Consultative Committee session of the 10th Parliament saw the participation of 60 MPs, including Ports and Civil Aviation Deputy Minister Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku and Transport and Highways Deputy Minister Dr. Prasanna Gunasena. Additionally, 40 senior officials from State institutions attended.

The three sub-committees, tasked with addressing key sectoral concerns, were structured as follows:

One sub-committee will focus on ensuring occupational safety for professionals in the transport industry. It comprises MPs Jagath Withana, Dinidu Saman, and Devananda Suraweera, and will assess workplace risks, regulatory gaps, and necessary protection for workers
Another sub-committee, chaired by MP Lakmali Hemachandra, will work towards strengthening the legal framework governing the transport sector. Members Sugath Wasantha de Silva, Thanura Dissanayake, and Sujeewa Dissanayake will collaborate on policy reforms aimed at improving transport infrastructure, safety regulations, and passenger rights
The third sub-committee, led by Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, seeks to identify revenue-generation opportunities within the transport industry. MPs Ravindra Bandara and Dhanushka Ranganath will explore strategies to introduce new services, public-private partnerships, and investment-driven initiatives to enhance economic sustainability in the sector.

During the meeting, Minister Ratnayake emphasised that the committees would operate beyond political lines, urging MPs to work collectively in identifying problems and developing practical solutions.

He also stressed the importance of addressing the rights, welfare, and employment concerns of those working within the transport, highways, ports, and civil aviation industries.

MPs raised several key issues, including vacancies in the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) and the need for reforms in recruitment processes.

Discussions also extended to improving railway accessibility for individuals with disabilities, with Railway Department officials confirming plans for additional inclusive facilities in the near future.

The meeting also featured insights from Legislative Services Director Jayalath Perera, who provided an overview of the role and functions of Ministerial Consultative Committees. His presentation aimed at enhancing understanding among attendees regarding the committees’ responsibilities, legislative impact, and collaborative potential.