The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) in charge of Traffic Control and Road Safety Range, W. P. J. Senadheera, stated that it is mandatory to inform the respective Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the local police station when organising ‘Dansal’ and Thoran (pandals) during the upcoming Poson Poya festival.
Addressing a press conference in Colombo, the DIG said the measure is intended to minimise road accidents and ensure public safety.
"If any event or display is organised for the public, instructions have been issued for the relevant OIC to provide the necessary guidelines and coordinate arrangements. This includes matters such as vehicle parking and traffic management. We are not discouraging the organisation of Dansal; rather, we seek to ensure that they are conducted in an orderly and systematic manner. For this Poson Poya festival, OICs are required to intervene and ensure that Dansal are organised properly," he said.
Meanwhile, DIG Senadheera also noted that legal action will be taken against drivers who fail to report road accidents to the police.
"According to our data, the actual number of road accidents is higher than the number officially reported. In some instances, accidents are settled on the spot without being reported to the authorities. The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has instructed that all road accidents be properly recorded and documented. Failure to report an accident within 24 hours constitutes an offence. It is the responsibility of the driver to report the incident. Failure to do so may result in legal action for non-reporting of an accident," he said.
The DIG further revealed that more than 7,500 drivers found operating vehicles under the influence of narcotics have been arrested so far this year.
"Compared with the corresponding period last year, there has been an increase of 98 fatal road accidents and 104 road fatalities. However, when assessed on a weekly basis, the number of such incidents is gradually declining. We have launched special operations to address this issue," he added.
