• SLTDA guidelines emphasise on adhering to Govt. stipulated laws and regulations

The Ministry of Tourism stated that every vehicle used to transport tourists, such as safari jeeps and Boleros, must be registered and approved by the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) if any modifications are made to such vehicles.  

These remarks were made by the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe while speaking to The Daily Morning yesterday (27) regarding grievances raised by small- and medium-scale tourist transport companies over raids conducted by the Police Department earlier this month as part of the Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative. The Government has now granted a grace period of three months until a clear mechanism for vehicle modifications is established.

He noted that any vehicle transporting tourists must be modified only after obtaining the required permission from the DMT and in compliance with its regulations. "If they wish to modify their vehicles or add any accessories, they must follow the regulations established by the DMT and obtain approval. Otherwise, it constitutes a violation of the law," he stated.  

In response to allegations made by tourist vehicle owners concerning financial burdens and the impact on their livelihoods, he remarked that every citizen must sustain their livelihood while adhering to the country’s existing laws.

Meanwhile, according to a recent set of guidelines issued by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority for vehicle-based safari tour operations, all safari vehicles must comply with the terms and conditions stipulated by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles. Furthermore, if safari vehicles are modified, they must obtain a condition report annually from the Commissioner General of Motor Traffic.