The Makumbura Multimodal Transport Center has unveiled its official website featuring an artificial intelligence passenger assistant, marking a step forward in Sri Lanka's modernized transport infrastructure initiatives.
Deputy Minister of Transport Prasanna Gunasena inaugurated the website for the Makumbura Multimodal Transport Center, which consolidates information on bus and train schedules alongside details about multimodal facilities nationwide. The platform introduces "MAKU," an AI-powered assistant designed to streamline passenger access to transportation data and services.
The launch reflects broader government efforts to upgrade transport infrastructure and enhance user experience across the sector. Officials presented advancements in fleet management systems, with plans to incorporate GPS technology for real-time bus tracking capabilities. The existing Park and Ride system was also reviewed, with data demonstrating reduced vehicle usage and associated environmental benefits through improved emission control.
A newly established passenger transport data system now collects information including bus identification, passenger counts, operational peak times, and arrival delays. According to the Deputy Minister, this data collection will inform strategic decision-making for future transport development. Expansion proposals for the Park and Ride initiative include mechanical parking facilities to increase capacity.
Multimodal transport centers, which integrate railways, long-distance bus services, and metro systems within unified hubs, are positioned as central to reducing private vehicle dependence and promoting public transportation adoption. Officials emphasized that these centers form a cornerstone of the government's infrastructure strengthening agenda.
