Sri Lanka tourism is taking a major step to rebuild its global image by introducing ethical training for three-wheel drivers under the government’s “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative. The one-day session aims to improve how tuk drivers interact with tourists and enhance the country’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.
Sri Lanka tourism initiative trains tuk drivers to improve ethics and tourist experience
Sri Lanka tourism is set to train three-wheel drivers, commonly known as tuk drivers, to promote ethical behavior and professionalism when engaging with tourists. The program, organized under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s National People’s Power-led government, falls within the broader Clean Sri Lanka campaign aimed at improving civic standards and public service quality.
According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), the one-day training will take place on Wednesday (8) at the Hector Kobbekaduwa Agriculture Research Center in Colombo. The session will focus on developing courteous conduct, fair pricing, and responsible driving habits among drivers operating in key tourism zones.
The move follows increasing reports of misconduct among some three-wheel operators in tourist areas such as Colombo, Kandy, Galle, and Ella. Complaints of overcharging, harassment, and unsafe driving have raised concerns within the Sri Lanka tourism sector, prompting authorities to take corrective measures. Such behavior has, in some cases, undermined the country’s efforts to market itself as a safe, friendly, and value-driven travel destination.
Government efforts to regulate the sector — including promoting metered fare systems and licensing reforms — have seen limited enforcement in the past. As a result, unethical practices by a small segment of drivers continue to damage the reputation of the entire industry. Officials say the new training initiative aims to reset standards and foster professionalism that aligns with global tourism expectations.
Sri Lanka currently has over one million three-wheelers, a vital part of the country’s transport ecosystem offering affordable and accessible mobility. With the revival of tourism after the pandemic, ethical driver conduct is becoming increasingly important in ensuring a positive visitor experience and encouraging repeat travel.
The Clean Sri Lanka initiative also targets wider civic goals, such as reducing plastic waste, promoting eco-friendly living, and encouraging responsible citizenship. Authorities believe that extending this vision to the tourism sector will strengthen the island’s global standing as a sustainable and ethical travel destination.
Industry analysts note that enhancing service quality at the ground level — including how tuk drivers interact with visitors — could play a significant role in boosting Sri Lanka tourism competitiveness in South Asia’s fast-growing travel market.