Bus conductor luggage fee scams and rules in Kandy

This is actually NOT a scam. It is standard CTB public bus policy. Red government buses and local blue buses do not have undercarriage luggage compartments. If your bag is massive and takes up a physical seat or blocks the narrow standing aisle, the conductor is legally allowed to charge you for an extra passenger seat. Just pay it so you do not have to hold 20kg on your lap.