Sustainable Mobility in SL. How far off the track is SriLanka, and what must be done more?

A Discussion with Rajiv David - Assistant General Manager, Peoples

Leasing & Finance

Francis Gerard Rajiv David is a seasoned Senior Marketing and Branding Growth Strategist

with over 25 years of experience across telecommunications, banking, insurance, and

financial services. He has held key leadership roles, including Senior Marketing Manager at

Union Bank of Colombo and Assistant General Manager at People’s Leasing & Finance.

Academically, Francis holds an MBA in Marketing and Finance from Sikkim Manipal

University, as well as professional certifications, including Certified Management

Accountant (CMA) and Chartered Marketer (MCIM, UK). His expertise spans digital

marketing, corporate communications, brand management, and sustainability (ESG), making him a recognized thought leader in his field.

Navigating Sri Lanka's Path to Sustainable Mobility: Challenges, Opportunities, and the Road Ahead

Sri Lanka stands at a crucial early stage in its journey towards sustainable mobility and

green transportation. While other nations̶particularly developed countries̶have

progressed significantly in integrating electric vehicles (EVs) and sustainable public

transport into their infrastructure, Sri Lanka is still grappling with foundational challenges.

These challenges encompass infrastructure readiness, government policy consistency,

consumer behavior, and environmental considerations. This article explores these

complexities and offers a comprehensive understanding of what lies ahead for Sri Lanka in

achieving sustainable and green mobility.

Current Infrastructure Deficiencies and Market Realities

One of the foremost obstacles facing Sri Lanka’s transition to EVs is the lack of critical

infrastructure. Unlike countries where charging stations, battery disposal systems, and

maintenance facilities have evolved in parallel with EV adoption, Sri Lanka's network of

charging points remains nascent and insufficient. This infrastructural gap extends to public

transportation services, where the overwhelming majority of vehicles̶buses and three-

Wheelers alike still rely heavily on internal combustion engines.

The absence of a widespread and reliable charging infrastructure discourages adoption, as

Consumers face practical challenges such as long charging times, limited availability of

chargers, and concerns over reliability. Furthermore, Sri Lanka’s unique vehicle market allotted with a culture where vehicles often appreciate rather than depreciate̶

makes the EV investment proposition uncertain, especially given the rapid evolution of

battery technologies and concerns over the durability of imported EV models, many from

Chinese manufacturers.

Policy Inconsistency and Economic Incentives

Government policy plays a pivotal role in shaping the pace of green mobility adoption.

Compared to countries like India, where tax reductions and regulatory mandates encourage

EV usage, Sri Lanka lacks a consistent and clear policy framework. The frequent revisions

and uncertainty surrounding tax benefits on EVs deter investors and consumers alike from

committing to EV markets. A robust, long-term policy with defined incentives̶such as tax concessions on EV purchases, scrappage programs for older petrol vehicles, and subsidies for setting up charging infrastructure̶is essential. Without such government backing and strategic vision, businesses cannot confidently invest in EV ecosystems, and consumers remain hesitant.

Environmental Considerations: Battery Disposal and Pollution Reduction

Sustainable mobility is not solely about replacing vehicles; it encompasses managing

environmental impacts throughout the lifecycle of technologies. One significant concern in

Sri Lanka is the lack of proper systems for safe battery disposal and recycling. Without

environmentally responsible solutions for end-of-life EV batteries, the potential ecological

benefits of EV adoption may be undermined. Moreover, the current state of public transport poses an immediate environmental challenge. Diesel and petrol buses and trains contribute significantly to air pollution. Regular monitoring and enforcement of emissions standards are needed to ensure a cleaner baseline from which to progress toward green alternatives.

Public Perception, Convenience, and Awareness

Consumer acceptance of EVs in Sri Lanka is primarily influenced by economic factors such

as lower running costs rather than environmental consciousness. The broader public

remains under-informed about ecological benefits and the long-term cost advantages of

sustainable mobility. Realigning public perception through education campaigns stressing

health, ecological sustainability, and benefits for future generations is necessary to

catalyze behavior change. Convenience also remains paramount. The lack of functional, reliable charging points and the perceived inconvenience compared to petrol stations exacerbate reluctance to switch. Elite urban consumers and young populations show signs of interest, influenced by new trends such as the popularity of BYD vehicles, but wider societal uptake requires tackling these everyday challenges.

The Role of Public Transport and Non-Motorized Modes

Sustainable mobility is not merely a switch from petrol to electric cars but a systemic

transformation of transport culture. Encouraging usage of public transportation and non-

motorized modes like walking and cycling can reduce pollution and ease congestion.

However, Sri Lanka’s current public transport system faces challenges including

unreliability, insufficient coverage, lack of parking and security facilities, and infrastructural

shortcomings. A coordinated approach focusing first on upgrading and electrifying public transit fleets is essential. Investments in infrastructure such as convenient parking close to transit hubs, safe cycling lanes, and pedestrian-friendly pathways will support this shift.

Economic and Regional Impact

The adoption of sustainable mobility holds promise not only for environmental benefits but

for the Sri Lankan economy. Reduced dependency on imported fossil fuels can enhance

energy security, lower transportation costs, and stabilize the broader economy.

Furthermore, investments in green technologies and infrastructure can spur new industries,

create jobs, and position Sri Lanka as a regional leader in sustainable transport innovation.

Regional cooperation, particularly with green technology suppliers and neighboring

markets, can accelerate progress by facilitating knowledge transfer, standardization, and

supply chain efficiencies.

Recommendations for Sri Lanka's Green Mobility Transition

1 Develop Infrastructure: - Prioritize rollout of charging networks and battery disposal

facilities for both private and public vehicles.

2. Consistent Policy Framework: - Establish long-term, stable government policies

including tax incentives, import regulations, and scrappage schemes specifically tailored to

encourage EV adoption.

3. Enhance Public Transport: - Electrify and modernize public transit while improving

reliability and coverage to promote modal shifts away from private vehicles.

4. Raise Awareness: - Implement comprehensive public education on environmental and

economic benefits of sustainable mobility to drive informed consumer choices.

5. Environmental Safeguards: - Develop battery recycling programs and enforce emissions standards on existing vehicles to mitigate pollution.

6. Economic Incentives and Regional Cooperation: - Encourage investments in green

mobility through fiscal benefits and engage in regional partnerships to leverage shared

technological and infrastructural advancements.

Conclusion

Sri Lanka’s journey toward sustainable mobility is complex, necessitating coordinated action

across government, industry, and society. Infrastructure limitations, inconsistent policies,

and market uncertainties present significant hurdles. However, with strategic planning,

sustained investment, and public engagement, Sri Lanka can move beyond these initial

challenges to realize the economic, environmental, and social benefits of a greener

transport system, safeguarding the future for generations to come.