Sri Lanka Records 276 Deaths in Just 263 Crashes in Early 2026

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka has recorded 276 deaths from 263 road accidents so far in 2026, according to Deputy Inspector General of Police for Traffic and Road Safety W. P. J. Senadheera.

He said the number of fatal road accidents this year has increased by 24, while the number of deaths has risen by 27, compared to the same period in 2025.

Providing a breakdown of the deaths reported this year, DIG Senadheera noted that 32% of victims were pedestrians, while 36%, or 98 individuals, were motorcyclists.

Nineteen pillion riders accounted for 7%, another 18 cyclists represented 7%, 25 drivers made up 9%, and 27 passengers accounted for a further 9% of the fatalities.

In total, 276 people have died in road accidents this year.

Police statistics also show that 15,068 people have died in road accidents over the past five years.

In 2020, there were 2,242 fatal accidents, resulting in 2,363 deaths.

In 2021, 2,452 fatal accidents were reported, with 2,557 deaths.

In 2022, 2,420 fatal accidents resulted in 2,540 deaths.

In 2023, police recorded 2,231 fatal accidents and 2,341 deaths.

In 2024, the number of fatal accidents rose to 2,403, with 2,521 lives lost.

In 2025, 2,597 fatal accidents were recorded, leaving 2,746 people dead.

DIG Senadheera stressed that reducing deaths and serious injuries must become a national responsibility shared by all road users.

He said pedestrians, drivers, passengers, vehicle owners, and enforcement agencies each have a duty to act responsibly and prevent avoidable tragedy.

He added that those who hand over vehicles to others also carry responsibility for ensuring safety and accountability.

DIG Senadheera said the Police will continue to enforce the law strictly with the aim of reducing accidents and creating a safer road environment where all citizens can travel and return home safely.