Sri Lanka recorded 1,375 road accidents in the first 25 days of 2026, with 147 fatal crashes claiming the lives of 155 people, police said, highlighting ongoing concerns over road safety in the country.
Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Traffic Control and Road Safety, W.P.J. Senadheera, said the figures underscore the persistent dangers on Sri Lanka’s roads, particularly during peak travel periods and holiday seasons.
Road safety advocates say the early-year statistics reflect long-standing structural issues, including reckless driving, poor road conditions, limited enforcement and rising vehicle numbers. Motorcycles and three-wheelers remain among the most vulnerable categories, often accounting for a significant share of fatalities due to limited protection and widespread use.
Traffic officials have repeatedly warned that speeding, drunk driving and failure to follow basic traffic rules continue to be leading causes of fatal accidents. Despite awareness campaigns and stricter penalties, compliance remains uneven, especially outside major urban centres.
Experts also point to inadequate road infrastructure, poor lighting, and insufficient pedestrian facilities as contributing factors. In many towns and rural areas, pedestrians and cyclists share narrow roads with heavy vehicles, increasing the risk of serious collisions.
Sri Lanka has introduced several initiatives in recent years to curb road deaths, including expanded traffic surveillance, stricter licensing procedures and public awareness campaigns. However, analysts say enforcement and public behaviour change remain key challenges.
With more than 150 lives lost in less than a month, authorities say stronger enforcement and public cooperation are needed to prevent further tragedies. (Newswire)