Sri Lanka Police have instructed all police stations to take legal action against drivers who park or leave vehicles in a way that obstructs designated bus stops.
In a statement, police said bus drivers are frequently compelled to stop on the roadway because other vehicles occupy the stops intended for buses to halt and for passengers to board and alight. The practice adds to traffic congestion and poses a significant risk to passenger safety.
Gazetted parking distances
A special Government Gazette notification prohibits parking within 30 metres of a bus stop and within 15 metres of its exit. Where a bus stop is equipped with a bus bay, parking is prohibited within 15 metres of the stop and within 10 metres of its exit.
Accessibility a stated concern
Police said the issue has taken on added importance with the introduction of wheelchair-accessible bus services for persons with disabilities. When bus stops are blocked by other vehicles, they said, persons with disabilities and other passengers may be placed in dangerous situations while boarding or alighting.
The measures are intended to ensure buses can stop safely at designated locations and that passengers can board and alight safely, while reducing unnecessary congestion, police added.
The statement did not specify the penalties that offending drivers would face, or set a date from which enforcement would be stepped up.
