Deputy Inspector General of Police for Traffic Control and Road Safety W.P.J. Senadheera has issued a strict warning to New Year festival organisers, including bicycle race organisers, to comply with traffic regulations during Avurudu celebrations.
Senadheera said authorities are closely monitoring whether event organisers and those supporting competitions are violating traffic rules. The warning comes as the Avurudu festive season sees a surge in outdoor events, bicycle races and community gatherings that can disrupt road traffic.
The DIG also revealed that the WhatsApp tip-off system introduced last week for reporting traffic violations has already generated results. By the end of April 13, approximately 23 complaints had been received via the number, with legal action initiated against 12 individuals based on photos and videos submitted by the public.
The enforcement push comes amid a grim road safety record during the festive period, with 49 people killed in traffic accidents in the week leading up to Avurudu. Police have deployed 8,000 officers for traffic management duties across the island during the New Year period.
