(UTV | COLOMBO) – The All Island School Children Transport Association says school transport fees are also expected to be reduced in line with the reduction in fuel prices.
Speaking to media, President of the Association Malsiri de Silva said they did not increase school transport fees even when fuel prices were increased earlier.
He also requested for diesel to be given for school vans at least once before releasing fuel under the fuel pass from the 21st of July.
The President of the Association said only a slight reduction in fuel prices had been announced compared to previous price hikes.
He said they will still move forward with reducing school van fares noting however school term has not yet commenced.
De Silva said although the new school terms is scheduled to commence on the 21st of July, they have thus far been unable to obtain diesel.
He said those engaged in the school transport industry are facing great difficulties while some have lost their jobs.
He said they cannot guarantee a major reduction in school transport fares adding however there must be a mechanism to increase fares based on fuel price hikes and to reduce fares when fuel prices are reduced.
The President of the Association said according to the fuel pass procedure, anyone with a vehicle number plate ending with number ‘9’ will have to wait till Saturday to obtain fuel whereas school term would have already commenced.
De Silva is of the view that the government must take steps to provide diesel to the necessary groups prior to implementing the fuel pass.
He said filling stations at Sri Lanka Transport Board depots face many difficulties due to the large number of vehicles being directed to them.