Sri Lanka, Feb. 5 -- A long-standing issue in the private bus industry spanning more than three decades was resolved today with the coming into effect of a gazette notification (2471/68) permitting the legal transfer of passenger service permits, Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development Bimal Ratnayake said.

Addressing a media briefing at the Transport and Highways Ministry, the Minister said the long-practised informal contracting and transfer of bus service permits has now been regularised under a clear legal framework.

"In the past, many bus owners transferred permits through illegal methods, creating numerous complications and delaying the development of the industry. This new process will not only protect existing bus...