Tender Called to Purchase 200 New Luxury Buses for SLTB

Colombo, Sri Lanka – The Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development has officially called for tenders to procure 200 new luxury diesel buses for the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB), in a move aimed at upgrading expressway and long-distance public transport services.

Deputy Minister of Transport Prasanna Gunasena stated that the initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize Sri Lanka’s public transport system, improve passenger comfort, and raise national service standards.

Project Aims to Upgrade Long-Distance Travel

The new fleet will consist of high-capacity luxury buses with 49 to 54 seats, designed to enhance travel quality on intercity and expressway routes.

Officials noted that the project will help:

      - Improve passenger comfort and reliability

      - Strengthen long-distance connectivity

      - Elevate the overall quality of SLTB services

Procurement Structure

The procurement process will be carried out in two categories:

      - 29 buses will be acquired through direct purchase

      - 171 buses will be procured under a five-year installment payment scheme

This approach is expected to balance immediate fleet expansion with long-term financial sustainability.

Key Dates for Bidders

Interested bidders should take note of the following timeline:

      - Issuing of bid documents: March 20, 2026 – April 9, 2026

      - Pre-bid meeting: March 31, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.
        (SLTB Procurement Division, No. 200, Kirula Road, Colombo 05)

      - Submission and opening of bids: April 10, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.
        (Sethsiripaya Stage II, Battaramulla)

Eligibility Requirements for Suppliers

Manufacturers applying for the tender must meet strict criteria, including:

      - Minimum 15 years of production experience

      - Annual output of at least 1,000 units of the relevant bus model

      - Appointment of a registered local agent with:

      *At least 5 years of experience in repairs and maintenance

      * Adequate workshop and after-sales service facilities

Strengthening Public Transport Infrastructure

The Ministry emphasized that the project is a key step toward building a more efficient, modern, and passenger-friendly transport network in Sri Lanka.

For further details, interested parties may contact the Chief Procurement Manager at the Sri Lanka Transport Board, No. 200, Kirula Road, Colombo 05. Telephone inquiries can be made via 011 7706110 / 0771056110, while fax communications can be sent to 011 2588457.