Road accidents kill 1,043 during last six months

About 8,875 road accidents occurred in Sri Lanka from 01 January to 18 June, causing 1,043 deaths, according to State Transport Minister Lasantha Alagiyawanna.

The majority of vehicles involved in these accidents were buses, motorcycles, and three-wheelers, the State Minister said.

Alagiyawanna added the accidents were caused by several factors including the quality of roads, vehicle conditions, and driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

Alagiyawanna said the Public Security Ministry, Sri Lanka Police, National Dangerous Drugs Control Board, Health Ministry, National Council for Road Safety, National Transport Medical Institute, Government Analyst’s Department, and the Department of Motor Traffic had prepared an action plan to reduce the number of road accidents.

The State Minister said a pilot programme had been launched in the Western Province to nab those who drove and rode under the influence of alcohol or drugs. (RK)