Seven Bus Drivers and Conductors Test Positive for Narcotics in Kadawatha Screening
Seven public transport drivers and conductors were found to have used dangerous narcotic substances during a special drug screening programme conducted at the Kadawatha bus stand yesterday.
The operation was carried out under a special initiative launched by the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development targeting public transport drivers and conductors, with the aim of improving passenger safety and road discipline.
According to the Ministry, around 148 drivers and conductors underwent random testing during the programme, with seven individuals testing positive for the use of dangerous drugs.
The initiative is being implemented under the Road Safety Plan introduced under the guidance of Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake.
The screenings were conducted by medical teams led by Dr. Lionel Muhandiramage of the National Transport Medical Institute, using a mobile laboratory bus deployed at the site.
Officials stated that the programme was launched in response to the increasing number of road accidents and the decline in road discipline, with authorities aiming to establish a drug-free and disciplined public transport service.
The Ministry further noted that the programme will be expanded islandwide with the support of the Sri Lanka Police and the National Transport Medical Institute.
Authorities also warned that drivers found to be using dangerous narcotic substances will face maximum disciplinary action under institutional regulations, in addition to legal action under the law.
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