Handover Ceremony for Environmentally-Friendly Large Low-floor Buses under the Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP)

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

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 H.E. 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 further 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.”

Hon. Bimal Rathnayake, Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, stated, “Today marks another memorable chapter in the enduring friendship between Sri Lanka and Japan. As our cities grow, the challenge of urban mobility becomes increasingly urgent. Every day, thousands of commuters rely on the transport network. Providing a transit system that is efficient, comfortable, and accessible to everyone is no longer a luxury; it is a fundamental public necessity.” He also mentioned, “We extend our sincere gratitude to the people and the Government of Japan. Their initiative and dedicated follow-up enabled us to receive this batch of buses.”