Sri Lanka Police have intensified inspections targeting drivers operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or narcotics, amid concerns over fatal and serious road accidents.
Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Traffic Control and Road Safety W. P. J. Senadheera said instructions had been issued to traffic officers across the country to step up enforcement against impaired and dangerous driving.
According to an analysis of daily fatal and serious traffic accidents, drug use, drunk driving, reckless driving and extreme fatigue have been identified as major contributing factors.
Special attention is being given to drivers of tippers, lorries, three-wheelers and passenger buses.
Police said several bus drivers and conductors had already been arrested in connection with drug-related offences, produced before courts and had their driving licences suspended.
Meanwhile, the Police have urged the public to report reckless or suspected drug-impaired driving, particularly involving buses, by sending clear video footage showing the vehicle's number plate to the dedicated WhatsApp number 070 47 55 600.
Police said strict legal action would be taken against offenders regardless of their status, as part of efforts to reduce fatal road accidents.
