Dogs linked to nearly 30% of Sri Lanka’s road accidents

Dr. Chamith Nanayakkara, founder of the Veterinary Association for Animal Catch Management through Psychological Methods, has warned that dogs are linked to nearly 30% of road accidents in Sri Lanka, while the government spends around Rs. 1 billion annually on rabies vaccinations.

Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo, Dr. Nanayakkara said the issue was placing a significant burden on the country’s economy.

He attributed the growing street-dog population largely to irresponsible human behaviour and poor waste management, which provides abandoned animals with easy access to food.

He said proposed new legislation could provide a long-term solution by requiring all owned dogs to be registered with the relevant local authority. Responsibility for stray dogs without owners or designated caretakers would also be assigned to local councils.

Under the proposed system, the government would take responsibility for vaccinating and sterilising street dogs, ensuring that animals living on the streets are not left without care.

Dr. Nanayakkara described the approach as a positive concept that could address both animal welfare and public safety concerns.

He noted that the financial impact extends beyond the cost of rabies vaccinations, as dog-related road accidents also create significant economic losses.

He stressed that the problem is largely the result of human actions rather than the animals themselves and called for greater social responsibility in managing pets and waste.