The demerit points system for traffic violations will be implemented from April 10, 2024, State Minister of Transport, Lasantha Alagiyawanna announced.
He said post offices handling traffic violation fines will transmit details such as the offence’s nature, the respective police station, driving license particulars, and contact number to the National Council for Road Safety’s data system.
Using this information, the National Council for Road Safety will send text messages and accident-related videos to the relevant phone numbers through WhatsApp.
The State Minister pointed out that it has been acknowledged that promoting awareness to reduce traffic accidents must begin at the school level.
As a result, the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Transport, and Ministry of Public Security will collaboratively launch road safety forums in every school from April 03, 2024.
Additionally, a plan has been devised to reward school students with medals at different grade levels based on their involvement in practical activities, leading up to the President’s medal.
Furthermore, it is anticipated that recipients of the Presidential Medal will be exempt from the written exam when applying for driving licenses.
State Minister Alagiyawanna further said that steps are also being taken to set up road safety forums within the colleges of education and implement similar initiatives.
He added that provisions for raising awareness about road accidents and traffic rules at preschools are also being arranged by providing necessary facilities.
State Minister Alagiyawanna made the announcement while addressing a press briefing held at the Presidential Media Centre on Friday (Mar 22). (NewsWire)