Sri Lanka Police go tough on traffic offenders

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

Amid an increase in road accidents and fatalities, the Sri Lanka Police has intensified measures this year to reduce traffic accidents, which continue to pose a serious threat to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians, Police Spokesman ASP F.U. Wootler said.   

He said that, under directives from the Inspector General of Police, special monitoring strategies have been implemented nationwide to enforce traffic regulations, ensure public safety, and impose fines on offenders.   

Accordingly, the police have deployed over 9,000 personnel and equipped all divisions with speed guns, modern monitoring tools, and body cameras to detect violations, including driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.   

ASP Wootler said that 85% of traffic accidents are caused by reckless or undisciplined driving, while 15% result from mechanical defects such as faulty brakes or worn-out tyres. He urged motorists to adhere to lane markings, maintain safe distances, follow speed limits, and wear seat belts.   

“With the initiatives of the Sri Lanka Police in 2026, we request drivers to keep both hands on the steering wheel while driving and to follow lane markings. Wearing seat belts and adhering to speed limits are especially important,” the spokesman said.   

He said that more than 400 CCTV cameras have been installed in Colombo and the Western Province to monitor traffic flow, and the public is encouraged to report violations through the e-Traffic Act.   

Under the e-Traffic Act, members of the public can report irresponsible or undisciplined driving to Police Headquarters, enabling authorities to take stern legal action against offenders.   

Traffic fatalities in Sri Lanka have been rising, with 2,388 deaths reported in 2024 and 2,710 in 2025—an increase of 322 deaths. ASP Wootler said reducing accidents is a shared responsibility and called on the public to follow traffic laws to save lives and make travel safer in 2026.   

“The Sri Lanka Police is deeply concerned about drunken driving, speeding, dangerous driving, careless overtaking, and indisciplined behaviour on the roads. We are prepared to impose fines and bring all offenders before justice,” the spokesman added.