Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo, Deputy Inspector General of Police (Traffic Control and Road Safety) W.P.J. Senadheera said the requirement has been introduced to enhance public safety, reduce traffic congestion and prevent road accidents during the festive period.
He explained that local police officers have been instructed to work with organizers by providing guidance on matters such as traffic management, parking arrangements and crowd control. The DIG emphasized that the police fully support the organization of Dansal and religious activities but seek to ensure they are conducted in a safe and organized manner.
Meanwhile, DIG Senadheera warned that motorists who fail to report road accidents to the police could face legal consequences. He noted that some accidents are settled privately without being officially reported, resulting in discrepancies between actual and recorded accident figures.
He stated that under existing regulations, all road accidents must be reported to the police within 24 hours, and failure to do so constitutes an offence. The Inspector General of Police has instructed officers to ensure that every accident is properly documented and investigated.
The DIG further revealed that more than 7,500 motorists suspected of driving under the influence of narcotics have been arrested so far this year.
He also noted that, compared with the same period last year, the country has recorded an increase in both fatal road accidents and road deaths. However, he added that weekly statistics indicate a gradual decline in such incidents due to ongoing enforcement and special traffic operations.
