By: Isuru Parakrama
April 20, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s New Year celebrations have been overshadowed by a surge in fatal incidents, with police confirming that more than 80 people lost their lives over the holiday period.
The deaths, recorded between April 10 and 18, include a significant number linked to road traffic accidents. Authorities reported that 53 individuals were killed in crashes, with the highest toll occurring on the opening days of the festive season, when travel activity was at its peak.
In addition, at least 27 people died in drowning incidents, many of which are believed to have taken place at rivers, reservoirs and coastal areas popular with holidaymakers. Police indicated that a combination of overcrowding, risky behaviour and limited safety precautions may have contributed to the increase.
Officials have expressed concern over the upward trend, noting that this year’s figures exceed those seen in previous New Year periods. They have urged the public to exercise greater caution, particularly when travelling long distances or visiting water bodies during holidays.
