Colombo, Sri Lanka – July 30, 2025
The Sri Lankan government has announced that it will begin strict enforcement of seat belt regulations across all vehicles starting October 1, 2025. This initiative forms part of the country’s broader effort to enhance road safety and reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities.
Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake emphasized that the enforcement will cover all vehicle types, including buses and lorries, which were previously exempt or loosely regulated under existing laws. The move comes after a phased implementation process that began earlier in the year, progressively extending seat belt requirements to bus drivers and passengers, as well as rear-seat occupants on expressways.
Minister Rathnayake highlighted that while seat belt laws for drivers and front-seat passengers in private vehicles have been in place since 2011, enforcement was not consistent, particularly for commercial vehicles. He stressed the importance of compliance, warning that non-cooperative bus owners and operators could face penalties or be encouraged to leave the sector if they fail to meet safety standards.
The National Transport Commission will oversee enforcement efforts and has pledged strict legal action against violations. Authorities also plan to increase public awareness campaigns to educate drivers and passengers on the lifesaving benefits of wearing seat belts.
This step aligns with the government’s National Road Safety Plan, which includes multiple measures aimed at improving traffic safety infrastructure and reducing the high rate of road accidents in Sri Lanka.
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