June 21, Colombo (LNW): Authorities have announced a last three-month window for owners of older vehicles lacking built-in seatbelts to bring their vehicles into compliance with road safety regulations.
According to National Council for Road Safety Chairman Manjula Kularatne, the compulsory enforcement of seatbelt requirements for all vehicles travelling on expressways officially commenced on June 20. However, recognising that certain older models were manufactured without seatbelts, regulators have granted a final grace period to allow owners sufficient time to install the necessary safety equipment.
Kularatne stressed that no further extensions will be provided beyond this concessionary period and urged motorists to act promptly to avoid future penalties. He noted that the measure is intended to improve passenger safety and reduce the severity of injuries in the event of road accidents.
The council reiterated that wearing a seatbelt is mandatory for both drivers and passengers whenever seatbelts are fitted in a vehicle. Officials warned that those found violating the regulation after the grace period expires could face legal consequences, including fines and other enforcement measures.
Road safety authorities have also encouraged vehicle owners to ensure that any seatbelt installations are carried out to approved safety standards, emphasising that proper restraint systems remain one of the most effective ways of protecting vehicle occupants during collisions.