Japan donates refurbished buses

Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka Akio Isomata, on 2 Sept attended the handover ceremony for eight (8) environmentally-friendly large low-floor buses, held in the presence of Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development Bimal Rathnayake.

The Japanese embassy said that this project is being implemented under the Government of Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP) with a total grant amount of USD 362,476 (approx. Rs. 112 million). At the request of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Japan’s contribution for the provision of large low-floor buses seeks to establish an operational system for public buses in Colombo that enables transport-disadvantaged persons to board and alight safely, thereby contributing to expanding independent mobility opportunities for residents, including the elderly and persons with disabilities. The buses are completely refurbished used vehicles that comply with Euro 4 emission standards, and their environmentally friendly features will also contribute to Sri Lanka’s “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative. The buses have been donated by the City of Yokohama.

Ambassador Isomata said in his remarks, “the fleet of buses provided this time is modest in numbers, but I am confident that the project will serve as a model case for future low-floor bus deployment and operations throughout Sri Lanka, by demonstrating how durability, accessibility, safety, comfort, and environmental sustainability can be integrated into the public transportation system.” He stated, “Japan remains committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s efforts toward inclusive, reliable, and sustainable urban mobility. May these buses carry not only passengers, but also our shared aspirations for a more accessible and cleaner future.”