The Government plans to introduce a pilot demerit points system for motorists in September as part of a broader effort to improve road safety and reduce traffic-related fatalities, Transport, Highways and Urban Development Minister Bimal Rathnayake told Parliament.
The Minister said stronger enforcement mechanisms are necessary to improve driving behaviour, noting that existing regulations alone have not been sufficient to address reckless driving and traffic violations.
According to Rathnayake, 2,750 people lost their lives in road accidents last year, with motorcyclists and pedestrians accounting for the majority of fatalities.
Under the proposed system, motorists will be allocated 24 points on their driving licences, with points deducted for traffic offences. Drivers who repeatedly violate traffic laws could face a range of penalties, including the suspension of their driving licences.
The Minister noted that previous attempts to implement the demerit points system were delayed due to administrative issues and irregularities within the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT).
He also highlighted ongoing reforms at the DMT, including digitalisation initiatives under the e-Motoring project, aimed at reducing corruption, improving efficiency, and modernising public services.
The pilot programme is expected to serve as a key component of the Government’s strategy to strengthen road discipline and enhance public safety on Sri Lanka’s roads.