1,000 Ashok Leyland buses headed for Sri Lanka

Having already established its presence in Sri Lanka over the years, Hinduja Group heavy vehicle flagship Ashok Leyland has now bagged an order for 1,000 buses from the People’s Leasing Company in Sri Lanka. Worth around US $ 26 million, this agreement represents the Company’s largest single order for buses from the island nation. Delivery of the 1,000 ‘Viking’ buses, varying from 42 – 58 seaters, will commence with immediate effect and the transfer will have to be completed before March 2011.

The Lanka Ashok Leyland, a joint venture between the Government of Sri Lanka and Ashok Leyland was formed in 1983, and has since played a key role in shaping the economy of Sri Lanka, not only in the transport and logistics department, but also in providing the Lankan locals ample employment opportunities. Mr. R. Seshasayee, Managing Director, Ashok Leyland feels that this significant order from the Sri Lankan Government will go a long way in further expanding growth and job opportunities in the nation.

With the cessation of hostilities, the north and east of Sri Lanka have once again opened up for trade, commerce and people’s movement and these buses which will be sold by the People’s Leasing Company to the country’s private sector are to be used in order to improve connectivity to these regions. The 1000 units’ bus order is being partly funded by the Asian Development Bank.