• Tourist zone drivers to be trained on skills, knowledge on islandwide tourist locales including on communication, conduct, charges, mobile app with barcode scan to be launched with multilingual 24/7 call centres  

While measures are underway to launch a mobile application for tourists soon, the Ministry of Tourism is also working on providing a licence following a training programme on key skills and knowledge on tourist locations in the Island, to three-wheeler drivers operating in tourist zones.

Speaking to The Daily Morning yesterday (2), Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism W.A. Chulananda Perera noted that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) is yet to be signed with the developers of the relevant mobile application. 

“The app should be launched soon. There are several procedures that need to be followed before the launch. We have to sign a MoU with the designers of the app too, so, we are holding discussions into those at present.”

Speaking on the training for three-wheeler drivers, he noted that a licence similar to an identity card will be issued for drivers who have undergone training. “These days, there have been concerns about the safety of tourists. In tourist zones, we will be training three-wheeler drivers on communication, appropriate behaviour, how they should be charging for hires, and providing a positive image about Sri Lanka. So, if tourists have questions about Sigiriya, the drivers should have the knowledge to answer.”

Speaking further, he said: “Through the app, tourists will be aware as to which three-wheelers have obtained licences, and the drivers will also definitely be wearing a tag which contains a barcode, and when they get into the three-wheeler, they can use this app and scan the barcode. This will let us know that these tourists are in this particular three-wheeler.”

Through the relevant app, tourists will also be able to lodge complaints against drivers or provide suggestions, Perera added, whilst also noting that 24-hour call centres too would be set up in seven to nine languages. “Therefore, those who are unable to communicate in English may also contact these call centres and make complaints or suggestions.”