Minister of Health Dr. Ramesh Pathirana highlighted the growing financial strain on the health sector due to road accidents. During the foundation stone laying ceremony for a new mental health clinic at Kegalle General Hospital, Dr. Pathirana said that approximately 12,000 accident-related deaths occur annually in Sri Lanka, with around 3,000 specifically due to road accidents.

He said the additional burden of disabilities sustained by many accident survivors, noting that the treatment costs for fractures, including plates and sutures, are ten times higher compared to treating chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Dr. Pathirana urged the public to exercise caution and take preventive measures to reduce road accidents, underscoring their substantial impact on the healthcare system.