Sri Lanka’s road traffic signs to get a facelift
View(s):Sri Lanka’s road traffic signs are to get a facelift with the introduction of new road traffic regulations by a gazette notification – all aimed at transforming the country’s road network including express highways, a top official of the Motor Traffic Department (DMT) said.
Under this initiative, over 100 new road traffic signs will be introduced in addition to existing road signs in accordance with international traffic regulations with the aim of reducing road traffic accidents, DMT Commissioner General S.H. Harischandra revealed.
The existing road traffic sign boards will also be changed in colour and sizes, he said adding that the introduction of electronic digital sign boards in express highways is also under way.
The Japanese government has granted Rs. 1.24 billion to buy and install Variable Message Sign (VMS) systems on expressways for efficient traffic management aimed at improving traffic flow and minimising road accidents, he disclosed.
The electronic traffic signs on roadways provide motorists information on traffic alerts such as accidents, congestion, construction, etc.
The gazette notification containing these regulations and all new signs displayed on express highways is to be published soon, he said.
Some of the new road traffic signs are areas of prohibition for pedestrians, three wheelers and motor cycles, closure of roads, new traffic signals for lanes and directions for vehicles transporting inflammable items, Mr. Harischandra disclosed. The Road Development Authority (RDA) will be entrusted with the task of installing the new sign boards, he said.
Motorists will be advised to get familiar with these new signs after the releasing of gazette notification and persons sitting the written test to obtain driving licences, will also have to study these new signs, he added.