- Fare revision only for WP
- 15% surcharge during 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. due to heightened risk in motoring: AITDA
In light of the latest three-wheeler fare revision coming into effect today (15) in the Western Province, three-wheeler associations encourage passengers to be vigilant about and take action against unfair fares.
The All-Island Three-Wheeler Drivers’ Association President, Lalith Dharmasekara, told The Daily Morning that the latest fare revision was based on several concerns pertaining to both passengers and three-wheeler operators, and is intended to give benefits to passengers without causing a loss to three-wheeler operators. Stressing that the latest fare revision should therefore be strictly adhered to, he urged passengers to take action against three-wheeler operators that do not reduce fares as per the latest fare revision.
Earlier this month, it was announced that a decision had been taken to reduce three-wheeler fares to Rs. 90 per kilometre (from the second kilometre), while keeping the Rs. 100 applicable to the first kilometre unchanged. In addition, between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., fares charged for every kilometre including the first kilometre will be increased by 15% which Dharmasekara said was decided considering the risks and difficulties faced by three-wheeler operators during those hours.
Noting the importance of regulating three-wheeler operators and fares, Dharmasekara opined that even though this newest fare revision is applicable only to the Western Province, it is a positive development: “So far, there was no place or law to complaint against three-wheeler operators that overcharge people. Now that new fares have been announced for the Western Province, in the event of unfair charges or other issues concerning the three-wheeler service, passengers can file complaints with the Police or the Western Province Road Passenger Transport Authority via 0760450860.”
Dharmasekara also cautioned passengers about various smartphone app-based metres (other than those provided by private three-wheeler services providing companies), adding that some apps have been tampered with in order to overcharge passengers.