News
The dirty stinky Dambulla bus halt
The Dambulla bus halt which caters to large numbers of commuters, is also used by many local and foreign tourists.
Unfortunately the bus halt and it environs have turned into a place of high risk for commuters using the facility due to it being in a badly neglected state. Open drains, metal exposed from damaged concrete slabs and the corroding metal sheets placed to cover up gaping holes in the precints of bus halt put communters at risk.
Bus drivers too complain that the badly damaged surface often results in the tyres of vehicles getting damaged. The stench emanating from the badly covered drains make the bad situation worse. The Dambulla Municipal Council charges Rs 700/- per a day from every bus using its facilities. It therefore provides a substantial income to the Municipal authorities on a monthly basis.
Despite this however, the Council fails to provide even basic amenities to the public. When contacted by our correspondent, Municipal Commissioner Ruwan Ratnayake said that he would take up the issue and take remedial action.
The smell from uncleaned drains devalues the sign ‘Main Bus Halt Dambulla’
Basic facilities are conspicuous by their absence
The potholed roads and damaged corrugated sheets covering open drains pose a risk to life and limb
Foreign tourists making the best they can with the irregular bus service and the everlasting stench at the main bus halt at Dambulla
Large numbers of commuters who use the Dambulla halt are at risk of injuring themselves
Bus owners pay 700/- per day to the DMC for facilities that do not exist