In the past, a simple bus journey from my village to Colombo took a mere forty minutes. The bus services were once so punctual that we could set our watches by their arrival and departure times. Those were the golden days when private companies were responsible for the bus service, ensuring a smooth and timely commute for passengers. However, in stark contrast, the present conditions have deteriorated significantly, leaving us to reminisce about the efficient travel experiences of yesteryears. Today, our bus journeys have regressed to the equivalent of the old bullock cart age, marred by delays, overcrowding, and chaos.
The introduction of timetables might suggest a semblance of order, but in reality, they serve merely as decorative displays at the bus stand. The bus that is purported to depart for Colombo at 6:10 a.m. seldom shows up before 6:30 a.m., causing frustration among the large and impatient crowd waiting eagerly. Once the bus arrives, chaos ensues, as passengers scramble to secure a spot on the already tightly packed vehicle. The queue system breaks down, and the situation devolves into one of survival of the fittest.
Passengers left without any breathing space find themselves clinging precariously to the footboard, hanging on for dear life. Meanwhile, the conductor contributes to the cacophony by shouting or making rude remarks, often engaging in heated arguments with disgruntled passengers. Eventually, the bus sets off, a good thirty to forty minutes past the scheduled time, kickstarting a nightmarish journey.
Inside the cramped bus, more passengers squeeze in at every halting place, further exacerbating the discomfort. The conductor continues to shout at the already oppressed passengers, making it challenging for them to even reach into their pockets or purses to retrieve the fare. The entire ordeal becomes a chaotic struggle, akin to sardines packed in a tin. For those unfortunate enough to endure this ordeal till the end of the journey, a sense of relief may come, provided they can disembark without sustaining broken bones, torn clothes, or lost belongings like purses and fountain pens.
The plight of bus travelers extends from the afternoon until late in the evening, with passengers facing inconveniences and added expenses. In some instances, there might be no buses available between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., forcing people with urgent business to rely on taxis. Yet, this alternative proves to be no less problematic. Taximeters are often rigged, leaving unsuspecting passengers to pay exorbitant amounts, ranging from 90 cents to two rupees per mile.
For the Ceylon Transport Board to provide my area with an efficient bus service, immediate action is necessary. The first step must involve the transfer of the current drivers and conductors, replacing them with individuals who possess a sense of responsibility and relevant experience. Without such changes, the state of the bus service in my area will continue to deteriorate, leading to further frustrations and inconveniences for commuters.
In conclusion, the decline of efficiency in bus travel is a pressing concern that demands urgent attention. From once being known for its punctuality and reliability, the current state of bus journeys is chaotic and burdensome for passengers. Overcrowded buses, delays, and unruly conductors have transformed the simple act of commuting into a harrowing experience. To rectify this situation, immediate reforms in personnel and management are necessary. Only through these concerted efforts can we hope to restore the once-esteemed efficiency and convenience of bus travel for the benefit of all passengers.