Seatbelts Now Mandatory for All Expressway Passengers

COLOMBO (News 1st); The National Transport Commission (NTC) has announced that the law requiring passengers to wear seatbelts on public transport services operating on expressways will be enforced starting today (1).

NTC Chairman P. A. Chandrapala stated that while the rule comes into effect immediately, it will become mandatory from September, giving passengers and operators time to adjust. 

The initiative is aimed at enhancing passenger safety on high-speed roadways.

In a parallel move, the Ministry of Transport and Highways confirmed that all passengers seated in the rear seats of light vehicles traveling on expressways are now legally required to wear seatbelts. This regulation is part of a broader effort to strengthen road safety standards.

Authorities have instructed both the police and expressway management officials to strictly enforce the rule.