Private bus operators on the Hanwella–Colombo route (143) have reportedly launched a strike amid a dispute over passenger boarding procedures.  

The strike is believed to be a response to issues raised by Kaduwela–Pettah bus operators concerning passenger handling. Gamini Jayasinghe, Chairman of the Western Province Road Passenger Transport Authority, confirmed that the involved parties have been summoned for discussions.  

He added that a meeting held this morning (9) is expected to lead to decisions on appropriate follow-up actions to resolve the dispute and restore normal service.