The Private Bus Owners Association said it had decided to launch a continuous strike from midnight tomorrow demanding a higher increase in bus fares. 

Its President Gemunu Wijeratne said his organization was not happy with 6.56% percent bus fare hike, approved by the Cabinet.'

The private bus owners said they needed a 20 percent increase in bus fare and a minimum fare of Rs. 15. 

The Cabinet also decided that the minimum bus fare will remain unchanged. 

However, Private Bus Owners Association last week demanded a 10% increase in bus fare. 

The Association said a price hike was necessary due to increased fuel prices.