The Ministry of Transport and Highways has announced that wearing seat belts will become compulsory for all passengers traveling in vehicles on Sri Lanka’s expressways from midnight today (18).
Senior Superintendent of Police Manoj Ranagala, Director of the Traffic Control and Road Safety Division, told the media that the one‑year grace period granted to motorists ends today.
From tomorrow (19), drivers and passengers found traveling without seat belts will face legal action, and vehicles without seat belts will not be permitted to enter the expressway.
The Police said that the rule applies to both front and rear seat passengers, noting that failure to wear seat belts significantly increases the risks of road accidents and injuries.
SSP Ranagala stressed that enforcement is aimed not only at imposing fines but at safeguarding lives.
Authorities warned that passengers in rear seats must also comply, and vehicles lacking seat belts should not attempt to access the expressway. (Newswire)