Authorities have initiated legal action against nearly 400 motorists and passengers for failing to comply with mandatory seatbelt regulations on Sri Lanka’s expressways.
The Expressway Transport Safety Division said inspections are being conducted at all entry and exit points of expressways to monitor compliance with the new requirement.
Under regulations that came into effect on June 20, all occupants of vehicles travelling on expressways are required to wear seatbelts.
Officials noted that a three-month concession period has been provided for vehicles that were originally manufactured without seatbelts, allowing them temporary access to expressways while owners make the necessary arrangements.
Chairman of the National Council for Road Safety, Manjula Kularatne, said the measure was introduced to improve passenger safety and reduce the risk of serious injuries in the event of accidents on high-speed roads.
Authorities have urged motorists and passengers to comply with the regulations, warning that enforcement operations will continue across the expressway network. (Newswire)