Mobile lab tests reveal drug use among passenger bus drivers – Dy Minister

Dr. Prasanna Gunasena, the Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways, announced that a mobile laboratory service tested 56 bus drivers, revealing that 10 had used illegal drugs. This testing initiative started on January 21 to check if passenger bus drivers and their assistants were driving under the influence of substances. The inspections began at the Bastian Mawatha Private Bus Station in Colombo, where the results showed that 10 out of the randomly chosen drivers had drugs in their system. The Deputy Minister reported that initial urine tests confirmed the presence of drugs like crystal methamphetamine, known as "Ice," heroin, and cannabis in the drivers. These drivers have been referred for further legal consequences. Dr. Gunasena described the situation as serious and complicated, pointing out the alarming finding of drug use among bus drivers during random tests. He also noted that some drivers tried to avoid the testing areas by communicating with each other about the inspections. He urged bus owners and the public in Sri Lanka to pay closer attention and support this important national program. The Deputy Minister mentioned that while the tests began in the Western Province, they will soon expand across the entire country without prior notice. He emphasized that these inspections will happen regularly and plans are in place to increase their frequency.