-By LeN Political Correspondent
(Lanka-e-News -16.Aug.2025, 4.50 AM) A group of National People’s Power (NPP) supporters living in the United Kingdom have donated Rs 6 million to the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) to improve rest facilities for bus drivers, in what Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake has hailed as “a shining example of overseas patriotism.”
The gesture follows the recent Garadiyella bus accident — one of several serious road tragedies in recent months — which, according to the minister, highlighted the chronic lack of proper rest facilities for long-distance drivers.
The funds will be used to install upgraded rest areas at five selected SLTB depots. “We must be grateful for this contribution made for the good of the country,” Mr Rathnayake said, after receiving a ceremonial cheque from Darshana Hettiarachchi, representing the NPP branch in the UK, at the ministry headquarters in Battaramulla this morning.
The initiative forms part of a broader project in which overseas NPP members contribute to infrastructure and welfare in Sri Lanka. In this case, the Rs 6 million is earmarked for the welfare of SLTB staff, with the chosen depots prioritised for rest-room development in collaboration with the NPP branch, the SLTB, and the Transport Ministry.
Mr Rathnayake noted that the overseas party network played a “vital role” in building the current NPP government, and had already demonstrated its commitment to Sri Lanka’s development.
“We hope the example set by the UK will inspire Sri Lankans working in other countries to contribute in the same way,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Mr Hettiarachchi said he was proud to be part of an effort that directly benefited those “dedicated to transporting a vast number of Sri Lankans daily.” He added that the NPP branches in the UK — and indeed other countries — would continue to work towards the “revival and rebuilding” of the country.
The presentation was attended by the minister’s private secretary, Asanka Chandrasena, and a group of senior ministry officials.
-By LeN Political Correspondent
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by (2025-08-15 23:29:31)
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