The Hon. Eranga Gunasekara - Deputy Minister of Urban Development

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, I thank the Hon. Samanmali Gunasinghe and Members who spoke. The Ministry of Transport and Highways bears a significant responsibility in this matter, and I present my remarks on that basis.

¶ 02 Three-wheelers occupy a significant share of our transport service and provide a valuable service in both urban and rural areas — affordable and accessible. However, without regulation, adverse consequences fall on the public.

¶ 03 Data show the scale: in 2023 there were 24,784 road accidents; 5,972 involved three-wheelers — about 24 percent, roughly one in six. Overloading beyond permitted passenger numbers is common, particularly with children given their small stature. Many vehicles lack seatbelts, have open sides, and carry unsuitable loads, creating risks. Excessive speed, poor vehicle condition, and substandard vehicles used for school transport compound the problem.

¶ 04 We therefore consider regulation indispensable, alongside sensitivity to the economic conditions of three-wheeler drivers. From January next year, as the Minister announced, we plan interventions including installing CCTV in vans to regulate them, and setting standards and controls for vehicles transporting children and office workers. We also intend to provide driver training and engage with trade unions and stakeholders in the sector to develop a workable system.

¶ 05 On the basis of the motion and the collective concern for children’s safety, we will move towards appropriate regulation, enforcing laws not to cause hardship but to safeguard children, passengers, women and families, ensuring safe and comfortable travel.

¶ 06 Thank you.