The Government plans to introduce Sri Lanka’s first dedicated lane for motorcycles in Kaluwanchikudy as part of efforts to reduce road accidents involving two-wheelers, Transport, Highways and Urban Development Minister Bimal Rathnayake said.
Speaking at the launch of the “100 for 100” National Corporate Motorcycle Safety Programme, the Minister said motorcycle-related accidents remain a major road safety concern and require targeted interventions.
Rathnayake said the proposed motorcycle lane, which will be physically separated from other traffic using rubber dividers, has already been designed and is expected to be implemented in the coming months.
He noted that the initiative was inspired by countries such as Malaysia, where dedicated motorcycle lanes have significantly reduced accident rates.
The Minister said Kaluwanchikudy was selected for the pilot project due to the high number of motorcycle users in the area, adding that the Government hopes to expand the concept to other parts of the country if successful.
The remarks were made during the launch of the “100 for 100” programme, a road safety initiative jointly organised by the National Council for Road Safety and Hayleys Advantis Ltd.
The programme aims to engage 100 private sector institutions, with each organisation supporting 100 motorcycle riders through road safety awareness and training programmes. (Newswire)