Drivers and passengers travelling on Sri Lanka’s expressways are now required to wear seat belts, with authorities beginning enforcement measures following the end of a three-month grace period on June 19.
The Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development said the requirement forms part of the National Road Safety Programme aimed at reducing road fatalities and serious injuries.
Under the new enforcement measures, individuals who fail to wear seat belts while travelling on expressways can be fined up to Rs. 1,000. The ministry also noted that future legal provisions will hold drivers, passengers and vehicle owners jointly responsible for ensuring compliance with the regulation.
Authorities urged all expressway users to adhere to the rule, emphasising that seat belts remain one of the most effective safety measures for preventing deaths and injuries in road accidents.
