Sudden inspections: Bus drivers tested for drugs & alcohol in Colombo

Authorities on Wednesday conducted surprise inspections on bus drivers in Colombo Fort as part of Sri Lanka’s national road safety programme, subjecting drivers to on-the-spot drug and alcohol testing.

Officials from the National Transport Commission, the National Transport Medical Institute and the Sri Lanka Police carried out the operation, testing urine samples of bus drivers using a mobile medical laboratory stationed at the site.

The tests screened for alcohol and four other narcotic substances, officials said, with action taken against drivers based on the results obtained during the inspections.

The operation was conducted in line with the National Road Safety Programme launched by the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development. Authorities said the use of mobile testing facilities allows for immediate detection and enforcement.

Until recently, legal action could be taken only against drivers found to be operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol. However, under new regulations approved under the Motor Traffic Act, enforcement has been expanded to include driving under the influence of other narcotic substances.

The regulations were approved following the submission of a new set of Motor Traffic Orders by the Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, Bimal Rathnayake. Officials said the programme will be continued as part of broader efforts to reduce road accidents and improve public transport safety. (Newswire)

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