Sri Lanka, April 22 -- The refurbished Pettah Bus Stand has quickly become the talk of the town. While many commend the government for upgrading passenger facilities, others lament the rapid deterioration caused by users - littering, betel chewing, spitting, and even damaging fittings.
Unfortunately, this behaviour is not unique to Pettah. Across the island, public spaces tell a similar story. Walls and lamp posts are routinely defaced with posters, and public infrastructure is often treated with neglect.
It is tempting to attribute such conduct to organised attempts to discredit government efforts. However, this assumption may be misplaced. The root of the problem appears far deeper and more systemic.
In a society marked by economic dis...