Sunday Times 2
Safer roads for all: Mitigating vehicle accidents in Sri Lanka
View(s):By Senior Prof. WRPK Fernando
Every year, thousands of lives are lost due to road accidents in Sri Lanka, with passenger buses contributing significantly to these tragic statistics. Between 2020 and 2024, road accidents claimed more than 12,140 lives, and in 2024 alone, 2,243 fatalities were recorded. These alarming figures underscore the urgent need for comprehensive and effective road safety measures.
The trend remains concerning in 2025, as within the first two and a half months—about 73 days—925 vehicle-related accidents have already been reported. Among these incidents, 412 were classified as road accidents, resulting in 436 fatalities, according to the Sri Lankan Police Department. These statistics highlight the pressing need for stronger enforcement of traffic regulations, improved infrastructure, and enhanced public awareness to reduce accidents and save lives.
Senior Prof. WRPK Fernando
Growing concern
Sri Lanka’s road network, while extensive, often lacks the necessary safety measures to accommodate the growing number of vehicles. Passenger buses pose a unique risk due to their size, frequent stops, and high passenger load. A recent tragedy in Badulla saw a university bus veer off the road, leading to two fatalities and 39 injuries.
Meanwhile, statistics from the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) reveal that around 1,400 buses are involved in accidents annually, leading to losses exceeding Rs. 800 million. The consequences of such accidents extend beyond fatalities, causing economic setbacks and disruptions in public transportation.
Road accidents, poverty
and economy
In Sri Lanka, road accidents do not just claim lives; they also deepen poverty and place an enormous financial strain on families and the national economy. Many road accident victims are the primary breadwinners of their families, and their deaths or incapacitation push households into financial distress. Medical expenses for accident-related injuries, rehabilitation costs, and loss of employment can further exacerbate poverty levels.
For the country, the economic impact of road accidents extends beyond direct medical costs. According to estimates, road accidents cost Sri Lanka billions of rupees each year due to medical expenses, insurance claims, loss of productivity, and damage to infrastructure. These financial burdens slow down national economic growth, making road safety an urgent economic issue rather than just a transportation concern.
Road accidents: Causes
A multitude of factors contribute to the rising number of road accidents, including human errors, infrastructural deficiencies and regulatory shortcomings.
Reckless driving and speeding – Many accidents result from excessive speed, overtaking in unsafe conditions and violation of traffic rules.
Liquor and narcotic drugs – Driving under the influence of alcohol and narcotic drugs significantly impairs judgment, reaction time and coordination, making it a leading cause of road accidents.
Poor road conditions – Potholes, inadequate lighting and poorly marked pedestrian crossings make roads hazardous.
Poor vehicle maintenance – Many vehicles on Sri Lankan roads, including buses and trucks, do not undergo regular maintenance, increasing the likelihood of mechanical failures.
Insufficient law enforcement – Traffic laws exist, but inadequate enforcement allows reckless drivers to continue dangerous practices unchecked.
Weather conditions – Heavy rains and floods frequently worsen road conditions, leading to an increase in accidents.
Mitigation strategies
To address these pressing issues, Sri Lanka must adopt a multi-faceted approach to improve road safety. Some key measures include:
Advanced safety technologies: Integrating technology in vehicles can significantly reduce accident rates. Features such as lane-departure warnings, automatic braking systems, pedestrian detection sensors, and electronic stability control should be mandated for public transport and private vehicles alike.
Regular maintenance and inspections: A comprehensive vehicle inspection system should be enforced to ensure roadworthiness. Periodic mechanical inspections will help minimise the risks associated with poorly maintained vehicles.
Strengthening traffic laws and enforcement: The government should introduce stricter penalties for traffic violations, including speeding, driving under the influence, and reckless overtaking. Traffic police presence must be increased, and modern surveillance technologies such as AI-driven traffic monitoring should be deployed.
Driver training and monitoring: Professional training programmes for bus and truck drivers should be made mandatory, focusing on road etiquette, defensive driving techniques, and vehicle handling in adverse conditions. GPS tracking and telematics can also help monitor driver behaviour in real time.
Infrastructure improvements: The government must prioritise road development projects that focus on safety enhancements. Installing proper lighting, clearly marked lanes, and pedestrian overpasses can significantly reduce accident risks.
Public awareness campaigns: Raising awareness about responsible driving habits is crucial. Nationwide campaigns emphasising the dangers of reckless driving, the importance of wearing seat belts, and safe pedestrian practices can contribute to behaviour change among road users.
Economic impact
Beyond the loss of human lives, road accidents have severe economic consequences. The SLTB alone incurs Rs. 800 million in losses annually due to vehicle damage and downtime. Moreover, medical costs, insurance claims, and infrastructural repairs add a heavy financial burden on both individuals and the government. For a developing nation like Sri Lanka, these economic losses hinder progress, diverting resources away from crucial sectors such as healthcare and education.
Improving road safety is not just a matter of saving lives but also a strategic economic investment. A reduction in accidents can lower government healthcare expenditures, improve workforce productivity, and create a safer environment for local and foreign investments. Furthermore, efficient road safety measures can boost the tourism sector, as safer roads enhance the overall experience of visitors traveling across the country.
Role of stakeholders
Road safety is a collective responsibility. While the government plays a pivotal role in policy implementation, transport companies, private vehicle owners, and pedestrians must actively contribute to safer roads.
Government authorities should enforce stringent traffic regulations and allocate funds for infrastructure development.
Transport companies must ensure their fleets are well-maintained and drivers are adequately trained.
Private vehicle owners should adhere to road rules, maintain their vehicles and practice defensive driving.
Pedestrians must use designated crossings, follow traffic signals and stay alert to avoid accidents.
Finally
With increasing accident rates and economic losses, Sri Lanka must act swiftly to enhance road safety. Implementing advanced technologies, strengthening traffic laws, improving infrastructure, and fostering public awareness can significantly reduce fatalities and make roads safer for all. The journey towards safer roads requires collaboration from all stakeholders—only then can Sri Lanka curb its growing road accident crisis and create a more secure transportation environment for future generations.