April 07, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Police have reported a steady and worrying rise in road accidents across the country, with fatalities continuing to climb year after year.
Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo focused on improving road safety awareness, Senior Superintendent of Police Manoj Ranagala, who heads the Traffic Control and Road Safety Division, revealed that 676 fatal crashes have already been recorded so far this year.
He noted that the situation has deteriorated compared to previous periods, with fatal incidents increasing by 74 and the overall death toll rising by 80. According to him, the trend reflects a deepening public safety issue that requires urgent attention.
Among the leading causes identified were deteriorating road infrastructure, dangerous driving practices, excessive speed, and motorists operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol. He further pointed out that pedestrians remain the most vulnerable group on the roads. As of April 05, 230 pedestrians and 247 motorcyclists had lost their lives in traffic-related incidents.
Also addressing the briefing, Manilka Sumanatilleke, President of the Sri Lanka Medical Association, stressed that a significant proportion of those affected are young people, underlining the broader social and economic impact of the growing number of accidents.
Officials indicated that increased enforcement, public education campaigns, and infrastructure improvements may be necessary to curb the escalating trend.