More Than 1,600 Killed in Traffic Accidents This Year | Hundreds of Motorcyclists Losing Their Lives

COLOMBO (News 1st) A growing number of motorcycle-related deaths, particularly among young riders, has emerged as one of the most serious road safety concerns facing Sri Lanka, according to the Police Traffic Control and Road Safety Division.

The warning was issued by DIG W.P.J. Senadheera during a special media briefing convened to inform the public about the country's road accident trends, the primary causes behind fatal crashes, and the categories of vehicles most frequently involved in serious incidents.

According to police statistics, 1,605 fatal road accidents have been reported across the country so far this year, resulting in 1,693 deaths. In addition, 3,125 serious accidents, 6,478 minor accidents and 2,388 property-damage-only accidents have been recorded.

Despite the alarming numbers, DIG Senadheera noted that there has been a gradual decline in fatal and serious accidents compared to previous periods, which he attributed to a strategic road safety programme introduced under the direction of the Inspector General of Police.

He explained that a coordinated strategy implemented at provincial, divisional and district levels specifically targeted the reduction of fatal and serious road accidents, and early signs indicate that the initiative is producing positive results.

However, a closer analysis of the fatalities reveals a concerning shift in the profile of road victims.

Of the 1,693 deaths recorded this year, 603 were motorcyclists, making them the single most vulnerable category of road users. Pedestrians accounted for 555 deaths, while 119 pillion riders, 115 cyclists, 136 drivers and 162 passengers also lost their lives in road crashes.

DIG Senadheera pointed out that while pedestrians accounted for the highest number of fatalities last year, motorcyclists have now overtaken them, highlighting a growing and potentially dangerous trend on Sri Lankan roads.

Investigations into road traffic accidents indicate that motorcycle-related crashes are increasing not only in number but also in severity. Police have observed a rise in fatal and serious accidents involving motorcycles, often linked to excessive speed, dangerous riding practices and modifications that contribute to excessive noise and public nuisance.

Particularly worrying, according to police, is the increasing number of young riders being involved in fatal accidents.

Authorities say many crashes involve individuals under the age of 18 or young adults between the ages of 18 and 22 who are riding without valid licences, adequate training or sufficient road experience. In many cases, these riders either sustain life-threatening injuries or lose their lives in preventable accidents.