Seat belt rule on expressways compulsory from Sept. 19

The Government will strictly enforce the seat belt rule on expressways from September 19, Transport, Highways and Urban Development Minister Bimal Ratnayake said in Parliament today.

“This rule was introduced over a year ago, but its implementation was delayed due to practical reasons, as some used vehicles were not installed with seat belts,” Ratnayake said.

“Since it has been over a year, we have now decided to strictly implement this rule from September 19,” he added.

The Minister said the new rule would also apply to school vans travelling on expressways.

Ratnayake also said that all passenger transport vehicles, including buses and vans, would be required to undergo a roadworthiness test every three months or after travelling 5,000 kilometres from the end of the year.

“This is to ensure that vehicles transporting passengers are in good driving condition. We have observed that some of the major accidents that have occurred were due to faults in vans and buses, including brake and tyre issues,” he said.