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CONTENT

CHAPTER ONE
a. Introduction

CHAPTER TWO
a. Statement of the problems
b. Aim and significance of the research
c. Objectives
d. Methodology

CHAPTER THREE
a. Introduction to Accidents
b. Causes of Road Accidents
c. Bad driving habits and road safety

CHAPTER FOUR
a. Road designs
b. Safety road system

CHAPTER FIVE
a. Introduction to Driving license and Insurance
b. Role of the Learner centers

CHAPTER SIX
a. Southern Highway Project, Sri Lanka
b. Financing from international groups for the major road development project
c. Safety considerations

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CHAPTER SEVEN
a. Sri Lanka Traffic Police
b. Main Functions
c. Functions of the Traffic Headquarters
d. Enhancement of Police Powers

CHAPTER EIGHT
a. Effects Of Road Conditions in Sri Lanka
b. Monitoring and Evaluation of roads

CHAPTER NINE
a. Sri Lankan main traffic acts
b. Fines for common traffic violations
c. Responsibilities of legal authorities

CHAPTER TEN
a. Interview with the Traffic Police

CHAPTER ELEVEN
a. Recommendations

CHAPTER TWELVE
a. Conclusion
b. References

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

01. Road accident has become a very familiar phenomenon since the invention of
automobiles. The first road accident took place about 150 years ago in Ireland when a lady
faced the irony of fate through an event of spot dead. Since then there has been a lot of road
accidents all over the world. A plenty of life and property loss has occurred. Many modern
technologies and methods are being invented day by day but the happenings of such accidents
are hardly stopped.

02. There many of reasons behind road accidents. These may vary from place to place or
country to country’s some major causes commonly responsible for them, such as over
speeding, adverse weather, distraction of drivers, driving errors, poor road design.

03. In the present research we would like to emphasize the road accidents as well as the
reasons. Also we present some suggestions to prevent the road accidents.

04. It is always unexpected that a person may met with an accident that make loss of life
and property. Hence when one is at the wheels she/he should keep in mind that she/he can
save or destroy his/her life.

05. Therefore, it is deemed that the suggestions we intend to make based on the present
research would be of vital importance to the relevant authorities.

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CHAPTER TWO

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

06. Road accidents have become an alarming problem in the society today. Accidents
take place due to the carelessness of the drivers and pedestrians, harming human lives, public
property and the well-being of the society.

07. It is high time to find a solution for this alarming problem in Sri Lanka. As a solution
we have suggested a new strategic plan to prevent road accidents in Sri Lanka.

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AIM OF THE RESEARCH

08. The aim of this research is to discuss the importance of strategic plan to prevent road
accidents in Sir Lanka.

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OBJECTIVES

GENERAL OBJECTIVE

09. The main objective of this research is to identify importance of a strategic plan to
prevent road accident in Sri Lanka.

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES

10. The secondary objectives of this research are:

a. To propose methods to reduce traffic congestion in main cities.

b. To introduce an effective parking system.
c. To suggest a national policy on modified rules and regulations to have better
management of the road system.
d. To point out the importance of alternative transportation means to achieve
effective and balanced road system.

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METHODOLOGY

11. The required data for the research will draw from the following sources.

a. Primary sources

Information will be collected by interviewing resource personnel in the relevant authorities

and by distributing a questionnaire among the selected sample of the population.

b. Secondary sources

Information will be gathered from relevant books, journals, the internet, treaties, paper
articles, law reports, conventions and international and local enactments of relevance.

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CHAPTER THREE

Introduction to Road Accidents

13. According to UN ESCAP Report1, the road accidents are a growing worldwide
problem - around 1 million deaths and over 23 million injuries per year, and around 85% of
these deaths occur in developing countries. A solution to problem is particularly urgent in
developing countries as the Asia – Pacific region already contributes 44% of global road
deaths although it currently has around 16% of the worlds motorized vehicle fleet.

14. Particularly in Sri Lanka, with the increasing number of motor vehicles every year
and the effort of the Government concentrating on construction, rehabilitation of road
infrastructure to facilitate rapid and smooth transportation of goods and people in order to
boosting national economic and particularly reducing poverty, road accidents are also
increasing in a dramatically high rate.

15. In Sri Lanka, road accidents are being recognized as the biggest disaster cause many
loss of life, loss of public and private properties, affecting social harmony. So Government
Poverty Reducing Policies are affected and impeded by this disaster.

16. As a result of the two factors such as increases in number of vehicles and very poor
development of road infrastructure, the traffic accidents in Sri Lanka shows an ever
increasing trend and an alarming numbers of fatality. The number of reported 2 accidents to
the Police has increased from 26,196 in 1989 to 52,444 in 2005. In 1989 a total of 1,454 fatal
accidents were reported and 2,141 were reported in 2005. However, it should be noted that
these figuers were based on the total accidents which were reported to the Police. But,
normally most of the minor accidents are not reported to the police, and many of the
accidents are settled amicably by both parties.

1
UN ESCAP Report in 2004
2
Police Headquarters, Colombo, 2010

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Causes of Road Accidents

Road accidents are caused by three main factors:

a. Human Factors (Road Users)

The statistics shows that 92% of road accident has been caused by road users who violated
the traffic law, such as driving faster than the specified speed, driving carelessly, getting
drunk during driving etc.

b. Road Defects

Road accidents are also caused by road/bridge infrastructure, which are not constructed
according to the appropriate safety standard, so one example of this is pot holes in the road.

c. Vehicle Defects

Defective vehicles also cause accidents because their owners do not properly maintain their
vehicles and regularly inspect the vehicle during the operation. So the road accidents occur
when there is brake failure, tire blowout, power steering failure, headlight failure.

Bad driving habits and road safety

17. There are a number of factors which can extremely irritate, other drivers and hence
dangerous, Bad Tailgating, poor lane discipline, not indicating and undertaking are just a few
of the bad habits that are frequent and very annoying. 

a. Tailgating – This is probably one of the greatest offences.  Some drivers are
extremely impatient, some people do it without thinking, just following traffic they get a bit
close, but then they back off as you accelerate way. Drivers who tailgate deliberately are the
most dangerous.  They sit behind another vehicle flashing their headlights in an effort to
move him/her, but of course there is nowhere to go as s/he is in the process of overtaking
and there is no room to pull in on the left.  To this kind of driver, the two second rule means
that they can just about cope with another vehicle in front of them before they decide to
intimidate them by driving inches away.

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b. Undertaking – when tailgaters don’t get their way in the roads will often resort to
undertaking if they cannot overtake also those selfish individuals out there whom hog the
middle and the outside lane of road.  They have no idea that there is a queue of traffic
waiting to get past them, probably because they are in their own little world may be
thinking about what to have for dinner.  This causes some individuals to lose patience and
panic.

c. Poor lane discipline – Some drivers are all over the road and they don’t seem to
realize that they are supposed to stay in between those white dashed lines.  

d. Miss use of indicators  – Some people have no idea what these pretty orange flashing
lights are actually for! They move here and there and go wherever they please without any
thought of letting the rest of the road users know what their intentions are.  

Figure 1-5

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CHAPTER FOUR

ROAD DESIGNS

18. The Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) is a series of 15 volumes that
provide official standards, advice notes and other documents relating to the design,
assessment and operation of trunk roads

The main designs are,

a. Design and contract Highways

b. Road Tunnels
c. Design Bridges

Highway Development Plan

19. The Road Development Authority3(RDA) has planned the future development of the
National Highway Network by rehabilitation of the existing National Highways and adding
alternate highways to supplement the existing Trunk Road System, so that the capacity of the
road network could cater to the future traffic demand. Further, it aims at facilitating greater
mobility, shorter travel time and provides easy accessibility with improved safety to the
people.

The Highway Development Plan mainly consists of two components.

a. Rehabilitation of the existing network

b. Development of a High Mobility Network

Reconstruction
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20. Most of the roads in the country especially the national Highway network have been
built long time back and they have, passed the useful life of these roads. Most of the roads
need complete reconstruction. In addition to that considerable lengths of roads need
realignment to meet the present day vehicle speed requirement. Road development Authority
has undertaken several major road rehabilitation programmers with the foreign donor
assistance.

The selection of projects for this rehabilitation has been based preliminary on the following.

a. Traffic Level
b. Road Condition
c. Connectivity

With the selection of road section based on above parameters a economic feasibility
study will be carried out for the final selection of project to suit the availability of fund and to
decide on the road capacity requirements.
 
Development of High Mobility Road Network

21. Even though need for maintenance and development of the road network has been
identified as the appropriate strategy/policy for the immediate/short to medium term in road
investment budgeting. In the long term road investing budgeting, increasing the capacity of
the road network expanding and developing it in a feasible manner, will be necessary.

22. It has been realised that development of existing trunk route system to cope up with
future traffic needs at a correct full level of service is a daunting task mainly due to the
inherent deficiencies in their alignment and widths that cannot be rectified without resorting
to large scale acquisition and demolition of buildings and re-locating service utilities
involving greater social and economic repercussions.

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Following activities have been identified by RDA for the increase of capacity of the
Road Network4

i. Planning of expressways/motor ways / high standard new major highways as

alternative or to supplement the trunk roads to cater to future needs as long term solutions.
ii. Construction of a system of ring roads/connecting major cities, major towns and
important urban centres.
iii. Major improvements including realignment and deviations to existing trunk road.

iv. By making highways we can reduce the traffic in main roads. Because people can use
two ways. One way is the highway and other way is the normal road so that the road
accidents can be reduced. There is speed limitation in the highways, and also only good
condition of vehicles can enter the highway and they will be divided into separate lanes for
those categories. People can save their time and if drivers are driving carefully, accidents can
be prevented.

Road Tunnels

24. A tunnel is an underground passageway, completely enclosed except for openings for
ingress and egress commonly at each end. A tunnel may be for foot or vehicular road traffic,
for rail traffic, or for a canal. Some tunnels are aqueducts to supply water for consumption or
for hydroelectric stations or are sewers. Other uses include routing power or
telecommunication cables. The central part of a rapid transit network is usually built in
tunnels. Railway station platforms may be connected by pedestrian tunnels or by foot bridges.

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a. Ramboda Pass Tunnel is the longest road tunnel in Sri Lanka and it is located at the
Gampola - NuwaraEliya Road. The project commenced in June 2006 and completed in
February 2008. The tunnel opened for the general public on 2 March 20085.

i. Length: 225 m
ii. Width: 7 m 
iii. No. of Lanes: 2

Usage Limitations

a. A tunnel is relatively long and narrow; in general the length is more (usually much
more) than twice the diameter, although similar shorter excavations can be constructed such
as cross passages between tunnels.

Road Railway Bridges

a. Road-rail bridges are bridges shared by road and rail lines.

b. Road and rail may be segregated, so that trains may operate at the same time as road
vehicles (e.g. the Sydney Harbor Bridge). With truss bridges, the rail track can be above the
roadway or vice versa.
c. Roads and railways may share the same carriageway so that road traffic must stop
when the trains operate, like a level crossing.
d. Railways may include heavy rail, light rail, tram, and streetcar.

25. Flyovers are mainly constructed to decrease the traffic in junctions. As examples
before making the flyovers in Dehiwala and Nugegoda there was vast traffic congestion in the
area. But after the construction of the flyovers the traffic reduced immensely in the main
junctions and as a result number of accidents happening around were reduced. Some of the

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flyovers are made above the railways, which is the main key to prevent the road accident?
Kalaniya flyover is the best example.

SAFETY ROAD SYSTEM

26. To make Sri Lankan roads safer for road users, the RDA continue to work towards
embracing a safety road system approach adopted in the Government’s Safer Journeys road
safety strategy. This differs from traditional approaches to road safety. Rather than just
blaming the user for causing a crash, it acknowledges that even responsible people sometimes
make mistakes in their use of the road transport system. A safe system endeavors to minimize
these errors and to reduce the severity of crashes when errors occur. The actions which the
RDA6 is taking to make state highways safer for all road users by:

a. Giving special attention to more vulnerable road users like motorcyclists

b. Providing more facilities for cyclists and pedestrians
c. Creating spacious and improvised roads and roadsides that reduce the likelihood of
death and serious injury of a passenger if a accident occurs.
d. Creating readable roads that help prevent road crashes by eliminating ‘surprises’
e. Using other initiatives that help prevent crashes from occurring.

Safety Considerations

a. Careful design and construction of roads can increase Road traffic safety and
reduce the harm (deaths, injuries, and property damage) on the highway system from traffic
collisions.

b. On neighborhood roads traffic calming, safety barriers, pedestrian crossings and cycle
lanes can protect pedestrians and cyclists.

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c. Lane markers in some countries and states are marked with Cat's eyes or Bots dots,
bright reflectors that do not fade like paint. Bots dots are not used where it is icy in the
winter, because frost and snowplows can break the glue that holds them to the road,
although they can be embedded in short, shallow trenches carved in the roadway, as is done
in the mountainous regions of California.

d. For major roads risk can be reduced by providing limited access from properties and
local roads, grade separated junctions and median dividers between opposite-direction
traffic to reduce likelihood of head-on collisions.

e. The placement of energy attenuation devices (e.g. guardrails, wide grassy areas, sand
barrels) is also common. Some road fixtures such as road signs and fire hydrants are
designed to collapse on impact. Light poles are designed to break at the base rather than
violently stop a car that hits them. Highway authorities may also remove larger trees from
the immediate vicinity of the road.

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CHAPTER FIVE

DRIVING LICENSE

27. "Driving permit" redirects here. This term could also mean Learner's permit. Driver's
license or driving license is an official document which states that a person may operate a
motorized vehicle, such as a car, van, motorcycle, truck or a bus, on a public roadway. The
laws relating to the licensing of drivers vary between jurisdictions. In some jurisdictions, a
license is issued after the recipient has passed a driving test, while in others, a person acquires
a license before beginning to drive. Different categories of license often exist for different
types of motor vehicles, particularly large trucks and passenger vehicles. The difficulty of the
driving test varies considerably between jurisdictions, as do factors such as age and the
required level of practice.

How to Get a Driving License7.

Step 1 : Applicant obtains the application form from,

i. District secretarial offices (normal service)

ii. Main office in – Colombo (priority service)

Step 2 : Applicant submits the filled form directed to Assistant Commissioner, along with
required documents to:

i. District secretarial offices (normal service)

ii. Main office in Verahera – Colombo (priority service)

Step 3 : Applicant sits for the written examination on the call of Department
Step 4 : Applicant does the practical examination on the call of the Department. Pass result
attained at this examination will be valid till 6 months

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Step 5 : Department issues the Temporary License, which is valid up to 6 months (at the
point of passing the practical examination)
Step 6 : Department issues the License (license will be sent to the applicant by post)

Licenses for Different Categories of Vehicles

Driving license for light vehicles.

a. It is possible to register and sit for the written test if 17 years of age has been
completed.
b. In the event of passing the written test, a learners’ permit is issued up to a maximum of
18 months.
c. Holder of such permit can practice driving.
d. One should complete 18 years of age to face the practical test and a minimum of 3
months should have passed after obtaining the learners’ permit.
e. It is compulsory to face the practical test and pass it.
f. Aptitude medical certificate of M.T.A. 31A form obtained within a period not
exceeding 6 months from a doctor registered with the Medical Council of Sri Lanka.

Driving license for heavy vehicles.

1. Should be a holder of a license for light vehicles (only B and B1 vehicle classes) for a
minimum of 2 years prior to the date of application.
2. To obtain a license for light motor bus and motor lorry category the minimum height
should be 4 feet 10 inches. A minimum height of 5 feet is required to obtain a license for
Motor bus and motor lorry category.
3. It is possible to register and face the written test on completion of 20 years of age.
4. In the event of passing the written test, a learners’ permit is issued for maximum period
up to 18 months.
5. Holder of such permit can practice driving.
6. 21 years of age has to be completed to face the practical test and a minimum of 3
months should have passed since obtaining the learners’ permit.

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7. It is compulsory for the applicant to face the practical test and pass it.
8. Aptitude Medical Certificate obtained from the National Transport Medical Institution
within a period not exceeding 6 months.

INSURANCE

32. Every person who wishes to use a motor vehicle on the road or where people have
access is required by law to obtain minimum Third Party motor insurance. The protection of
and assistance for innocent victims of negligent drivers and the need to ensure that a
policyholder who has arranged insurance cover will be guaranteed the appropriate protection
are the fundamental requirements for the legislation. Motor Traffic Act, No.14 of 1951 and
its subsequent amendments consolidate the Laws relating to Motor Vehicles and their use on
highways including provisions relating to insurance against 3rd party risks. The
unprecedented increase in vehicle population has consequently increased the number of road
accidents and it is no wonder that motor insurance is a mandatory requirement to protect the
road users. It also provides peace of mind to the vehicle owners. Many of us do not
comprehend the importance of motor insurance in protecting us against a loss of life or injury
to a person or a damage which may occur to our motor vehicles. When we purchase a motor
insurance, we are in fact protecting our investment, which, at the prices prevalent today, is
probably the second most valuable asset next to our home.

Duty of a Motorist In Case Of an Accident

33. In terms of the Section 161 of the Motor Traffic Act, No.14 of 1951, it is obligatory
for you to immediately stop the vehicle upon occurrence of an accident, carry the injured to
the hospital if the injured person requests to do so, unconscious or in a critical condition. The
incident should be reported to the nearest Police Station furnishing necessary details such as
your name, address, number of the vehicle, the name and address of the owner in case the
accident involves a third party property, etc. It is your duty to produce your Certificate of
Insurance when required to do so by the police. Further, you are bound by the conditions of
the insurance policy to immediately report the accident to the insurance company and
thereafter submit all the necessary information. It is your responsibility to take all necessary

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precautions to safeguard the vehicle from further damage to it. You should not discuss whose
fault it was, make any admission, offer or promise to pay without the concurrence of the
insurance company as this may create difficulties for your insurance company in the handling
of your claim. Moreover, you should not abandon the vehicle after an accident and should
provide your assistance to the insurance company for speedy settlement of your claim.

LEARNERS CENTER

34. In a discussion about the road accidents the role of driving schools or learners center
should also be discussed. Because they hold the responsibilities of making good drivers that
would also prevent road accidents because driver is the person who controls the vehicle and
at the same time if drivers drive more carefully many accidents would not happen.

35. A driving center should have a place that they have been permitted to establish the
driving schools. The driving instructor should be knowledgeable to teach all instructions in a
good manner. The instructor should have a driving permit to teach others. The learner should
make sure that the driving instructor is registered.

Advice for Learners

Following are some facts which the learners must know,

a. Theory Test
b. .Learner Permit
c. Rules of the Road
d. Driving Lessons
e. The Driving Test

a. Theory Test

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Learners they have to face a kind of theory test that tests their knowledge in theoretical
aspects. A new driver should pass this test to own a license. This test checks on the
knowledge about road signs, symbols& rules etc.

b. Learner Permit

Without learner permit no one can own a leaner center, if illegal. The drivers who get
enrolled in such places will not be well knowledgeable as the quality of the teaching is not up
to the standard with unqualified people.

c. Rules of the Road

Instructor should teach each & everything about rules of the road. Because if the driver do
not obey the rules and misbehave in the road that will be the point where accidents occur.

d. Driving Lessons

The lessons should be well organized because the learner should get the maximum
knowledge as the learner center lays the foundation for a good driver.

e. The Driving Test

This test is very important, because it practically tests the knowledge of the driver. So this
should be a strict one. If anybody fails he should repeat, otherwise a less qualified driver will
be born.

36. By testing all these aspects a newly licensed driver will be a very knowledgeable,
Careful, well behaved driver, and the quality of the learner center influences on the quality of
the driver. When low quality driver is made s/he may cause the next accident. Similarly when
a good driver is made s/he can stop next accident hence driver can change the fatality on
roads.

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Main Considerations of the Driver

37. When driving on the road, drivers should consider about the following factors. If
drivers pay attention and concentrate on these issues, many accidents could be prevented.
There are different road signs located according to different places. So if any person drive
without paying attention on road signs, many difficulties will occur.

a. Color lights.

The color lights are located to control the drivers by themselves. If any person drives
without concerning color light, he will be charged on the spot. Because when a driver drives
fast without obeying these lights other road users will be in trouble.

b. Road Crossing

This is also a very vulnerable place where accidents occur. Road crossings as well as
railway crossings are these points. In the Sri Lankan history there are many accidents
occurred when focusing this place. So drivers have to drive carefully at this type of places.

c. Other vehicles in the road

Other vehicles which are also going along the road are also a very important issue when
driving. For an example if we know the positions of the surrounding vehicles we can
control our vehicle according to their acts. So the driver should be very relaxed and very
comfortable in mental & physical health.

d. Road condition & Road Design.

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Same time driver should consider about the road condition and speed dosing. The
infrastructure of a road is a main point to consider. Bottle necks and narrow bends should
be driven with patience.

New Strategic Plans to Increase Quality Of The Driver.

i. Change the format of the test.

ii. Add new test to test driver’s initiative.

iii. Use manual & auto gears vehicles.

iv. Give more knowledge to driving learners by using awareness programs.

Figure 2-5

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CHAPTER SIX

Southern Highway Project, Sri Lanka8

39. The Southern Highway (Southern Expressway) project in Sri Lanka is a 126km-long
express highway running from Colombo to Matara on the south coast. The project is a major
part of the 130.9km Southern Transport development project. The Southern Highway project
was divided into two sections for financing purposes. The first section consists of the
expressway from Kottawa (a suburb in Colombo) to Kurundugahahetekma. The second
section consists of the long expressway from Kurundugahahetekma to Matara.

a. The southern region of Sri Lanka has become easily accessible with the completion
of the project. The project has also increased road safety while the travel time between
Colombo and Matara has been greatly reduced.

b. The project was initially estimated to cost $348.75m, but escalated to $741.1m.
Construction was started in 2003 and the project was anticipated to be completed by 2010.

c. It was, however, delayed to 2011 as negotiations were carried out between the
Government of Sri Lanka (GOSL) and the Export and Import Bank of China, regarding the
financing of section four. The project was finally completed and officially inaugurated in
November 2011.

d. Construction commenced on the ADB-funded section in April 2003. Package I in the

other section commenced construction in September 2005, whereas package II commenced
in March 2006. The Ministry of Highways of Sri Lanka is the executing agency of the
project, whereas the Road Development Authority is the implementing agency.

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e. Intersections on the Colombo-Matara expressway include Kottawa, Baddegama,

Kahathuduwa, Pinnaduwa, Gelanigama, Deegoda, Dodangoda, Kokmaduwa, Welipenna,
Godagama and Kurundugahahetekma.

f. The majority of the construction work of the ADB-funded section of the project, such
as construction of bridges, tunnels and earth fillings, were completed by September 2009.
Works on the section were fully completed by August 2010.

Financing From International Groups for The Major Road Development Project

The project is being financed by Japan Bank for International Corporation (JBIC), the Asian
Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Sri Lanka (GOSL). JBIC provided a loan
of $2.05bn, while ADB and GOSL provided $1.03bn and $1.26bn, respectively.

JBIC's loan is availed for the 66.5km-long first section expressway from Kottawa to
Kurundugahahetekma, while ADB is funding the 59.5km-long second section expressway
from Kurundugahahetekma to Matara.

Southern Highway Project, Sri Lanka

40. The Southern Highway (Southern Expressway) project in Sri Lanka is a 126km-long
express highway running from Colombo to Matara on the south coast. The project is a major
part of the 130.9km Southern Transport development project. The Southern Expressway is
from Kottawa to Gall Fort Access (Pinnaduwa). Expressway maximum speed limit is 100
km/h.

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Project Objectives

a. Improve transport facilities for future development of Southern Region.

b. Provide a highway to act as a catalyst in encouraging and attracting industries and
services for the Economic and Social development of the region.
c. To promote inter-regional transport facilities is a major component of the proposed
Expressway network.

Figure 3-5

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Figure 4-5

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Expected Travel Time on

Previous Travel Time
Expressway

Colombo – Matara 4 1/2 - 5 hrs 2 hrs

Less Than
Colombo – Galle 3 1/2 - 4 hrs
1 1/2 hrs

Southern Highway Project

Table - 1

Benefits of the Project

a. Reduce travel time between Colombo to Matara.

b. Reduce traffic congestion on Colombo-Matara Road, and reduce delay costs, fuel costs
there by contributing to national economy.
c. Attract private sector investors and there by contributing to expand the job market
d. Development of fisheries, agriculture, industries in the region .
e. Expand tourism presently confined to the coastal belt, along Colombo-Galle-Matara.
f. Development of Galle port.
g. Development of the towns belong to 11 interchanges as Economic Centers

41. The placement of energy attenuation devices (e.g. guardrails, wide grassy areas, sand
barrels) is also common. Some road fixtures such as road signs and fire hydrants are designed
to collapse on impact. Light poles are designed to break at the base rather than violently stop
a car that hits them. Highway authorities may also remove larger trees from the immediate
vicinity of the road.

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CHAPTER SEVEN

Sri Lanka Traffic Police

42. Traffic Police Headquarters was established in 1953 and it assists the Inspector
General of Police in taking decisions on traffic policies and thereafter it helps to implement
them and closely monitor implementation. Policing of road traffic in Sri Lanka has become a
major task for the Police. Implementation and Enforcement of regulations and Laws comes
through powers vested on the Police by the Motor Traffic Act of 1951.The necessity to form
a separate unit to control traffic within the city was recognized in 1950 by the Colombo
Metropolitan Police. Due to the increase in volume of road traffic in the island the Traffic
Headquarters was inaugurated in 1953 to cover the entire island.

43. Every station presently maintains a traffic branch. Officers entrusted with this
specific duty are identified by the white colored top part of their peak caps and the white belt
with cross belt they wear. These officers have undergone extensive training in vehicle
examining, traffic accident investigations and court procedures.

44. Traffic wardens employed by the controlling bodies in the cities and towns assist the
Police to a certain degree of parking in vehicles within town limits.

45. With the increase of the numbers of vehicles on the highways causing continuous
traffic congestions in the cities especially during the peak hours, the demands on the Police
to meet with the situation for smooth running of traffic has a corresponding increase.

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Main Functions

a. Enforce Traffic Laws, prevent violations of traffic regulations and prosecution of

offenders.
b. Investigate into accidents.
c. Control traffic on highways.
d. Provide pilot duties for VIPP.
e. Assist the public in various social events and functions where motor traffic is
involved.

Functions of the Traffic Headquarters

46. A senior Superintendent is attached to Traffic Police headquarters supervised by
Senior DIG Traffic Administration and Road safety DIG Traffic administration and Road
safety is designated as Director Traffic Administration and Road safety Traffic,
Headquarters” His functions include the following.

47. Keep the Island’s accident statistics; and to supervise and guide The MAAP System
and its island wide functions Also to coordinate with RDA and other stake holders in order
identify Black Spot areas and to attend to Road infrastructure defects and to make preventive
action.
a. Direct accident preventive action.
b. Organize Road Safety work on an Island-wide scale.
c. Act as Adviser and Consultant in all traffic matters.
d. Train Police Officers engaged on traffic work and accident investigation.
e. Supervise the Police Traffic schools at the Central Garage and the Training School.

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48. Advise in the organization of traffic schemes on special occasions such as Kandy
Perahera, NuwaraEliya season Anuradhapura season, Kataragama and Thalavila feast May
day and visit of Heads of states and State functions.

i. Investigate any special traffic problems with a view suggesting remedial action.
ii. Advise (in consultation with AG’s Department ) in all legal difficulties connected
with traffic work; and to handle suggestions to improve the Traffic Laws and also to
expedite in obtaining instructions in filing indictment and plaint in all fatal accidents and
serious accidents.
iii. Examine the working of Divisional/District Traffic/Traffic Branches, with a view to
bringing about co-ordination and uniformity in the methods of handling traffic problems
throughout the Island.
iv. Organize, maintain and direct the activities of a “ Traffic Circus” and which will
operate throughout the Island giving demonstrations of the Road Safety rules at schools and
public places and also the Traffic exhibition. Stall
v. Organize and conduct lectures Island wide for schools Public & Private organizations
with a trained team of lectures specially selected on Road Safety & Road Craft and also
training of School & other traffic wardens.
vi. Provide motorcades / escorts / pilots on orders of I.G. Police and also to supervise &
co-ordinate the motorcade functions for ceremonial escort with Transport Division,
Mounted Division, VVIPP protection Divisions and Foreign Ministry
vii. Co-ordinate with Ministry of Highways, Ministry of Transport, Commissioner
General of Motor Traffic, National Road Safety Secretariat and other stake holders with
regard to Traffic Administration & Road Safety.
viii. Conduct Senior & Junior Traffic Management Courses, Refresher Courses for
Officers in Traffic Branches and for Officers who are responsible for motor accidents
involving Police vehicles.
ix. Supervise driving schools at Police college and at traffic head quarters.
x. Conduct Traffic Impact Assessments on new developments on the requests made by
Urban Development Authority(UDA) and other local authorities on payment and lent
charges to be levied.

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xi. Supervise Southern Transport Development Project (STDP) and other Express way
projects and to train, educate Officers and members of the public and all road users and to
administer and supervise high way patrol and control centers.
xii. Supervise the issue of traffic gear. And to make necessary applications for the
requirements. Of traffic gear in keeping with modern technology to the entire traffic force
for traffic administration and road safety.
xiii. Have close liaison with Commissioner General of motor traffic and also supervision
of Registrar Motor Vehicle (RMV) Police post and its administration in providing
information with regards to registered owners of vehicle, Driving license, stolen vehicles
Suspension and cancellation of license, entering a of demerit points etc.
xiv. Monitoring of Divisional road safe committees and assisting the committees.
xv. Probe in to public complaints on re accidents and injustice caused to public on orders
of IG Police Senior DIG Traffic.
xvi. Ensuring road safety for Cycle races and other competitions and providing safety and
security for large scale international and National events.

49. Introduction of an Annual Policing Plan setting out the Government’s strategic
priorities for policing over the coming year and a requirement for police authorities to
produce a three-year strategy plan consistent with the national policing plan.

50. A provision enabling chief officers to designate police authority support staff as
Community Support Officers, investigating officers, detention officers or escort officers in
order to support police officers in tackling low level crime and anti-social behavior and to
free up officers for front line duties. .

51. Modification of certain police powers including conferring a power on a medical

practitioner to take a blood sample from an unconscious driver. Enhancement of police
powers to deal with the anti-social use of motor vehicles on public roads or off-road, to
include a power to seize the vehicle or motorcycle in addition to powers for accredited
community safety officers to remove broken down, illegally parked or abandoned vehicles.

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CHAPTER EIGHT

Effects of Road Condition

52. Condition of roads is another factor which largely contribute to road accidents. If the
condition of a road is not suitable enough to run a vehicle, it should be repaired immediately.
Otherwise a lot of road accidents may occur. When the speed of vehicle is increasing, the
balance of the vehicle is reduced. Hence the roads should be in good status.

53. But in Sri Lanka the situation is somewhat different. It has been identified that some
road systems are broken and consist with holes. When a vehicle is moving with high speed, it
loses its balance due to the broken places of the road.

54. Another main point is bottle neck bridges on the roads. When roads are being prepared
or enlarged, at the same time the bridges also should be enlarged. But with the unavailability
of resources that work get delayed and therefore the bridges are getting late to be prepared.
So that, a bottle neck is remaining and when a high speed vehicle comes, it hasn’t enough
space to go and it may collide with another vehicle or bridge or any other object. This has
become a usual occurrence in the country.

55. Some areas in Sri Lanka have bended roads. Those bends are too narrow and its very
difficult to control a vehicle at these places. Most of such type of bends is there in the hill
country areas. When a long vehicle that comes with a heavy load, is highly vulnerable to be
collided or face with an accident. Moreover it is very difficult even to take a turn at such type
of places.

56. Some of the roads are slippery and drivers may find it unable to control their vehicles
which may result in huge accident. When vehicles brake on the road, if it is a slippery road, it
is difficult to stop the vehicle, which that this is a very dangerous situation.

57. In some places, there are some bridges over the road, but the problem is they are not
strong enough to bare up the various weight of heavy vehicles. When a heavy vehicle goes on
that bridge, it may break and that may be a big problem.

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58. At the same time if the condition of the roads is up to the standard, the vehicles can go
up to some level of speed. Thus collisions’ be stopped due to the good condition of the road.
If the condition of the vehicle and the driver’s concentrate is there, it is very easy to stop a
road accident.

Monitoring and Evaluation

59. A simple but effective monitoring and evaluation system is required to track the
progress of road safety activities and to estimate the safety impact. Monitoring and evaluation
systems should be established as part of implementing action plans and safety initiatives.
Data is the cornerstone of all road safety activity and Data Systems and Analysis is essential
for the diagnosis of the road crash problems. For monitoring road safety efforts, It is
important to identify what categories of road users are involved in crashes, what maneuvers
and behavior patterns lead to crashes and under what conditions crashes occur.

a. Financing Road Safety- A sustainable funding source is required for the implementation
of road safety measures. Two sources for financing road safety which are becoming more
popular are road safety levels on insurance premiums, thereby extending the focus from
compensation to prevention. The other is road funds which are usually based on fuel levels.
These may be dedicated to the improvement and the maintenance of a safe and cost effective
road network. Sri Lanka has particularly successful in securing funding for road safety. The
introduction of self-enforcing techniques in road designs have much better short term results
than improving vehicle standards and driver testing requirements. Many developing countries
have either just adopted road standards from developed countries or modified such standards
without fully evaluating the consequences. The traffic mix and road usage in developing
countries is very different from that of developed countries. Road crashes can be prevented
by better planning and more safety conscious design of the road network.

60. The main aim is to design out safety problems from the beginning and to reduce
future problems. Regarding Sri Lanka also Safety audits should be included the design,

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construction and maintenance phases of road projects. In many developing countries safety
devices are included in the designs, but are simply not constructed on the ground. In Sri
Lanka also, road maintenance is limited to fixing potholes and cleaning drainage facilities,
without replacing missing traffic signs, guard-rails, road markings and other safety features
essential to create a safe road network. 

61. Teaching road safety skills to children can provide lifelong benefits to society that
should be seen as a long term intervention strategy. Children may remember the messages in
the short term, but effective and sustainable development of positive attitudes towards road
safety are best achieved by inclusion in the core curriculum, either as a compulsory subject in
its own right or as a cross-curricular theme. It is also essential that education inputs are
incremental (building on previous skills) and linked to the child's abilities. Training is best
done in schools by professional teachers who have themselves been trained in the safety
issues relevant to children.

CHAPTER NINE

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Sri Lankan Main Traffic Acts

62. Main present act on traffic in Sri Lanka is Motor Traffic Amendment Act No 8 of
2009.This includes all the laws regarding the Sri Lankan traffic system. This act mainly
focuses on the laws regarding limits, for seat belts, for license, for parking and for vehicle
conditions.

63. Then the next act regarding traffic is High Way Act No 40 of 2008.Modern high way
system is introduced to Sri Lanka recently. Subsequently, high way act was also introduced to
Sri Lanka. This act mainly focuses on the laws regarding charges, vehicle categories and
speed limits in relation to high way.

64. In High Way Act charges are taken under the section 9(1) and section 11(1).Here
President and President security vehicles, Prime Minister and Prime Minister security
vehicles are exempted from to pay charges when entering to the high way. Other than that all
other vehicles must pay charges when entering the high way according to the vehicle
category and the distance.

65. Vehicles categories have divided in to 4 categories. Class1 category has to pay the
lowest charges. Cars, jeeps, wagons, cabs, vans less than 9 seats, trucks which transport less
than 3500kg weights are coming under Class1.Motor coach less than 9 seats, buses not less
than 9 seats and not exceeding 33 seats are coming under the Class2.Motor coach exceeding
33 seats, 6 wheel lorries and trucks and also Lorries and Trucks exceeding 17000kg weight
are coming under class 3.Class 4 has to pay the highest charges and 2 motor coach buses,
vehicles more than 4 accells coming under this class. Maximum speed limit in the high way
is 100kmph.Only in high way cases can be charged for high speed. On other roads, only the
offense relating to carelessness or negligent can be charged.

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Fines for Common Wrongful Traffic Activities9

66. Newly amended fines for common wrongful acts are some of these. For parking in
illegal places Rs.500, for high speed driving Rs.1000, for driving without license Rs.2500, for
driving under 18 years old Rs.5000, for ride without helmet Rs.15000-Rs.25000, for wrong
side driving Rs.15000-Rs.25000, for careless overtaking Rs.15000-Rs.25000, for careless
driving Rs.15000-Rs.25000, for not wearing seat belts Rs.1000-Rs.2000, for bad condition
vehicles Rs.5000-Rs.10000.

Responsibilities of Legal Authority

67. Law enforcement authorities have responsibilities to make law available to police,
pedestrians, drivers. Because people do not have ways to know the updated laws. So when
wrongful act happen, pedestrians and drivers may not know the act was an offence. That is a
big mistake of law makers. Hence, to prevent that mistake they can disseminate knowledge of
new laws, specially to drivers and pedestrians on Television programs, in Paper articles and
through Legal networks.

9
Motor traffic amendment act no 8 of 2009

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CHAPTER TEN

INTERVIEW WITH THE TRAFFIC POLICE

68. The data elicited the interview with SSP K ARSHARATHNAM director of traffic
police.

a. The main reasons for accidents in Sri Lanka are,

i. Carelessly overtaking vehicles,
ii. driving at high speed,
iii. drunken drivers
iv. Carelessness of pedestrians.

b. There are some remedial actions to minimize present road accidents.

i. Awareness programs for school children and drivers,
ii. Awareness programs for pedestrians on road safety,
iii. one day awareness programs by the traffic department
iv. After implementing those remedial steps 50 percent reduction was noticed.

c. The government actions are also there to prevent road accidents.

i. Road signals have been introduced and established at particular places.
ii. Traffic police units take actions to give strike punishments to the culprits who
commit traffic violations.
iii. New motor vehicle act of 2009, no 8 has been created to increase the
punishments given.
iv. RDA introduced a new system to renew license.

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d. When functioning these policies the police department had to face some kind of
difficulties too.
i. Corporation and the help given by the pedestrians and the media was not
sufficient.
ii. Lack of resources is also a problem the police department faced.

e. As the laws/ by-laws are not sufficient enough to give a weightage to personnel those
who commit road traffic violations.
i. There are some processes for re-introducing such regulations to the system.
ii. Driving license regulations have been widened and speed limitations have
been introduced at particular places to particular vehicles as per their strength.
iii. Then in the government gazette of 1726, not only this rules and regulations,
but also self-discipline also should be there with the people for their safety.

69. CCTV cameras were installed in Colombo as a step to monitor the traffic. It was
successful. Furthermore 105 cameras were initialized in inner Colombo city area were
installed on 21-12-2010. 227million rupees were spent to install them. Mobile cameras were
deployed at several places Colombo and the incidents can be seen and hence culprits can be
brought before the bar. As the mobile cameras are there, the drivers pay more attention to
behave on the road.

70. As the future proposals to minimize the percentage of road accidents, amendments of
acts, increase in the amount of fines, people awareness programs have been introduced by the
government.

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CHAPTER ELEVEN

RECOMMENDATIONS

71. Most traffic accidents are the product of several factors. The probability of accidents
can be reduced in a number of different ways. There is no doubt that the following activities
can prevent the increase in accidents that would normally result from increases in traffic
density. There approaches to preventing accidents:

a. Education and training of

1. Introducing a new subject to the syllabus of school children regarding road
rules and safety.
2. Adolescents in the principles of safe driving and in good driving attitudes
3. Refresher courses for older drivers to bring home safe-driving principles and
to refresh their knowledge of traffic law
4. Newspaper, radio television, and other publicity, to draw the attention of all
road users both to dangers and to safe practices on the road.

Plans to increase quality of driver through learners.

i. Change the format of the test.

ii. Add new test to test driver’s initiative.

iii. Use manual & auto gears vehicles.

iv. Give more knowledge to driving learners by different lectures.

b. Enforcement by
1. Use of CCTV cameras island wide to catch crimes and traffic violations
2. Adopting reasonable and traffic laws which, at the same time, are best
designed to prevent accidents and considering fines
3. The implementation of point driving license system

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4. concentrating the time and energy of traffic officers on the offences, locations,
and times that feature frequently in accidents
5. Thoroughly testing new drivers to ensure they will not be liable to cause
accidents.
6. Upgrading traffic light network with hardware and software.
7. Increasing the increments of traffic police will lead to catch suspects by police
without hesitation.

c. Engineering of vehicles and roads: Vehicle engineering, comprising

1. Regular inspection for a “warrant of fitness” to ensure that the main
components of the vehicle are safe
2. Fitting safety equipment, such as seat belts, air bags

d. Considering the RDA

1. removing of illegal constructions
2. Creating tunnels, flyovers and pedestrian flyovers, underground tunnels for
pedestrians.
3. Keeping spaces when building new houses near roads.

e. Upgrading and developing the existing railway system, So that people will tend to use
trains for travelling long distance.

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CHAPTER TWELVE

CONCLUSION

72. The Research has demonstrated that it is possible to collect data on the factors leading
to Road traffic accidents and has produced information that could be used in research.
Information is based on the opinions of the officers collecting data at the scene using their
best judgments from evidence gathered after the event. Inevitably some factors may be harder
to determine and may be under-recorded in any system.

73. The most common reasons why people get into car accidents is because of driving
while intoxicated. Not only does drunk driving cause us to not be alert, so also do other
things such attempting to drive without getting enough sleep, and being of older age.
Whatever, the reason, it is best that we are fit and prepared mentally and physically to drive.
Many young teenagers get into accidents because they don't have enough experience being
behind the wheel. Whether it is animal running across the streets; slippery oil on the roads;
fog, or rain in the air; congestion car accidents Hopefully by knowing these reasons more can
be prevented, bust as with anything action must be taken forth to assure things work out as
intended.

74. The real pressure and motivation to improve driving skills can come only through
licensing authorities by adopting stricter, more comprehensive and scientifically based test
laying a stress on road rules, regulations and traffic control devices. At the time of giving
license to the public transport drivers (Bus and Trucks), they can be given training in first-aid
skills so that victims are attended immediately in the post-accident period.

75. There is clearly a need for road safety education and it should be directed towards
road users, who are frequently involved and injured in Road Traffic Accidents RTAs (e.g.
students). An integrated program of road safety education is suggested.

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76. However, there are big challenges ahead for the implementation of such policy
throughout the country in an effective manner. There is lack of coordination between
different ministries, departments and various agencies working in the field of injury including
road traffic injury. The data are kept separately and not shared for developing immediate and
future plans. Such as, At the time of driving, you should try install a hands free device and
keep it permanently in your car, you should just look forward to the road scenario while
driving instead of other things, show due respect to other drivers and the traffic rules and
drive your vehicle within the speed limit, Avoid any sort of distractive elements, Ignore risky
and narrow road ways, never ride a car when you are drunk or in a paranormal emotional
state, be careful about your vehicle, check and double check the machinery parts before you
ride it, don’t forget to keep your headlights turned on while driving in fog or rain, take
advance weather forecast before you get out for a long drive and etc.

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REFERENCES
Sources:

a. Interview with the Traffic Police Headquarters with SSP A. Arshrathnam, head of
Traffic Police Department, Colombo - 2012
b. UN ESCAPE Report in 2004
c. Department Motor Traffic (2010) Learner Leaflet- retrieved from
http://www.motortraffic,gov.lt on 23rd July 2012

Books:

1. Design Manual For Roads and Bridges\ (DMRB)

2. Law books –Motor Traffic Amendment Act No 8 2008 & 2010
3. How to drive safe by Sri Lanka learner center

Websites:

i. http://www.rda.gov.lk
ii. http://www.transport.gov.lk
iii. http://www.motortraffic.gov.lk
iv. http://www.ruleoflawsrilanka.org
v. http://www.colombopage.com

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CERTIFICATION

……………………………… …………………………………..
Sqn Ldr AKW LAKSHMAN Lt TCD GALGODELLA
(MILITARY DS)

………………………………. …………………………………..
MS. DARSHANE JAYAKODY MRS. HD WIJESEKERA
(ACADEMIC DS) (ENGLISH DS)

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