A mobile laboratory has been deployed to detect motorists driving under the influence of drugs, says Deputy Inspector General of Police W. P. J. Senadheera of the Traffic Control and Road Safety Division.
The DIG stated that the law will be strictly enforced against drivers operating vehicles while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. He revealed that more than 7,000 cases of drunk driving were recorded across the country during the past year.
Addressing the media, DIG Senadheera said that while individuals have the right to consume alcohol, driving after drinking will not be tolerated. He urged those who consume alcohol to use alternative transport methods such as taxis or designated drivers.
Highlighting the severity of road accidents, the DIG noted that 31% of road accident fatalities last year were pedestrians, while motorcyclists accounted for another 31%. Cyclists made up approximately 7–8% of the deaths.
DIG Senadheera further said approval has been granted to obtain several drug testing kits, and authorities are currently awaiting their delivery. In addition, the National Institute of Medicine has introduced a mobile laboratory capable of detecting four types of drugs—heroin, cannabis, babul, and ice.
He said that these mobile medical units are already in operation and emphasized that strict legal action will be taken against drug-impaired and drunk drivers as part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety.
