HNB sets benchmark in public transport payment digitalisation

Transport and Highways Minister Bimal Rathnayake with HNB Chief Operating Officer Sanjay Wijemanne and Senior Vice President/Head of Retail Banking Kanchana Karunagama at the launch event held at Makumbura Multi-Modal Transport Centre 

HNB PLC, in collaboration with the Transport, Highways and Urban Development Ministry has announced the national launch of its digital bus fare payment solution on 24 November 2025 at the Makumbura Multi-Modal Centre. The event brought together the Transport Ministry, multiple banking partners, and private bus operators to advance the next phase of Sri Lanka’s digital public transport ecosystem. Parallel events were also held in Monaragala and Badulla, marking a coordinated nationwide activation. 

HNB previously introduced the pilot program at the inter-provincial level, positioning itself as an early leader in operational deployment. Building on this success, the pilot phase now serves as the foundation for a structured nationwide rollout of digital payments across the public transport network. 

The program was attended by Minister Bimal Rathnayake, who officiated the launch of bankcard payments for bus travel and reiterated the essential contribution of the banking sector in delivering Sri Lanka’s digital transport vision. Representatives of the Private Bus Owners’ Association, the NTC Chairperson, and officials from the Digital Economy Ministry were also in attendance, demonstrating that successful implementation at national scale relies on coordinated collaboration among banks, operators, and regulators. 

Transport and Highways Minister Bimal Rathnayake said, “Digital payments in public transport strengthen our national move towards a predictable and modern mobility network. When services operate with accuracy and transparency, more people gain confidence to choose public transport, which reduces traffic congestion and supports a more sustainable transport environment. This system enhances the quality of travel by minimising delays, improving boarding efficiency, and giving passengers a reliable payment experience. Our expectation is that every partner, including banks and operators, will work together to scale this initiative and build a transport network that meets the long-term needs of the country.”

The Minister also inaugurated the Random Alcohol Testing Program for passenger transport drivers and inspected the Bus Condition Testing Station, underscoring the Government’s commitment to improving safety and technology-driven oversight.

HNB Chief Operating Officer Sanjay Wijemanne said, “Transport is an essential touchpoint for millions of Sri Lankans each day, and our role is to deploy payment technology that functions reliably, consistently, and at scale. The solution launched today improves revenue accuracy for operators and delivers a streamlined experience for commuters. It supports the national objective to embed digital payments across essential services while strengthening the backbone required for future mobility innovations.”

The initiative advances sustainable transport by reducing inefficiencies associated with cash handling, improving accountability, and elevating service quality. HNB remains committed to strengthening Sri Lanka’s transport system with reliable, sustainable, and high-quality digital payment solutions that reinforce the nation’s long-term mobility goals. While several banks are contributing to the national rollout, partners at the event recognised HNB’s superior operational readiness, expansive network strength, and sustained leadership in steering Sri Lanka’s transition toward a fully digital economy.