The minister was speaking to the media in Kalutara when asked about the bus strike to protest the increase the fine for traffic law violations to Rs. 25,000.

Once their licenses are cancelled, new licenses will be issued, he said.

Senaratne asked the government not to withdraw the increased fine, adding that it was him who had first made the suggestion for an increase.

Nearly 25,000 people die each year due to road accidents, he said and claimed Sri Lanka could be the country with the highest incidence of traffic law violations.

The private bus and three wheeler taxi strike caused inconvenience to the commuters countrywide today (02).

Police have been asked to provide protection to CTB buses as they had come under stone attacks in several areas.