Sri Lanka, Feb. 5 -- Transport, Highways, and Urban Development Minister Bimal Rathnayake today invited newcomers interested in joining the private bus industry, calling for greater participation to strengthen public transport services.

Addressing the media, the Minister said the transport sector is no longer an industry driven by corruption, fraud, or political favoritism, as seen in the past.

"Anyone can apply through the tender-based system without the need for personal connections, friendships, or recommendation letters," he said, welcoming new businesspersons and industrialists to enter the private bus sector.

Minister Rathnayake further said that young entrepreneurs are especially encouraged to join the industry, noting that the...