The Ministry of Health has handed over a fully equipped mobile testing bus to support the National Road Safety Programme, which conducts random drug tests on public transport workers across five provinces.

The Ministry of Health has transferred a mobile drug testing unit to the National Transport Medical Institute as part of efforts to expand road safety measures nationwide. Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa presented the bus, numbered PZA-0040, to Professor Clifford Perera, Chairman of the Institute, during a ceremony at the Ministry premises on Monday.

The mobile testing program targets drivers, conductors, and assistants employed in public transport services, screening them for drug use while on duty. Currently operational in five provinces, the initiative is aligned with the National Road Safety Programme established by the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development. Authorities indicated that the program will be extended to remaining provinces as resources and personnel become available.

Since the launch of the random drug testing initiative, 7,150 tests have been conducted across the country. Officials emphasized that the program forms part of a broader inter-ministerial strategy combining short-, medium-, and long-term measures to reduce road accidents and safeguard lives and property. The donation represents a continued commitment to strengthening public transport safety through systematic screening and enforcement mechanisms.