Call to check increasing number of road accidents

The ever increasing number of road accidents in our country is a matter of grave concern that needs to be addressed immediately by the law enforcement authorities and all civic conscious people of this country, said Minister of Public Administration and Home Affairs Karu Jayasooriya. He was addressing a meeting of professional organisations in Gampaha last week.

According to reports there were 33,339 road accidents last year.

The loss of life and the people who have suffered grievous injuries account for more than 6,000. Nearly 2,000 pedestrians lost their lives. Consequently their dependents and loved ones are rendered destitute. If this situation continues un-arrested, its cumulative effect will be disastrous to society, the minister said. He appealed to drivers to look into this situation with empathy.

They should think how they would feel if such an unfortunate thing were to happen to one of their loved ones. When they take the wheel they should realise that not only their life but also the lives of a number of other people who are travelling in their vehicles-rest on them.