Enforce seatbelt law, urges FIA President

Klevenberg to revive AA aid points across the country

By Deepal V. Perera

The visiting President of Federation International De l’Automobile (FIA) Jean Todt yesterday called on the Government of Sri Lanka to make it compulsory for all the motorists to wear seatbelts in order to curb the country’s escalating fatalities related to motor accidents.

“Last year alone Sri Lanka experienced over 2,000 motor-related fatalities and over 200 people were injured due to accidents. Sri Lanka needs a road safety policy applying new road safety laws, especially making the use of seatbelts compulsory.

The Government should make the use of seatbelts compulsory in the country. FIA would like to extend assistance to Sri Lanka via its affiliated organisation, the Automobile Association of Sri Lanka,” said FIA President Jean Todt.

To coincide with the FIA President’s visit to Sri Lanka, Klevenberg Limited, the local agents for Lucas batteries, signed an agreement with AA to revive AA aid points across the country.

Deputy Chairman of Browns Group Ajith Devasurendra told media yesterday that under the new agreement, Klevenberg would actively engage in reviving AA points, under its Lucas brand.

“We will be reviving the AA aid points across the country. Lucas will reorganise every AA point by introducing a new look, such as rest rooms and coffee centres in the identified locations. As there are many roads are now open in the North and Eastern Provinces, the new tie-up would create more aid points to assist motorists,” he added.

The visit of the FIA President is timely, as the Sri Lanka Automobile Association celebrates 106 years in existence. The AA said that the visit was significant as it was the first time a leading figure in motor racing and a high-ranking official from FIA had visited the country.

“It is great indeed great honour to have President Todt in Sri Lanka and his visit will draw international attention to the country,” said AA President Dammika Attygalle.

General Manager of Klevenberg Limited Manjula Wijemanne said that company was delighted to sponsor Todt’s visit to Sri Lanka.

“With our involvement in the motor industry for decades, it is fitting that we host such a prestigious visitor to this country,” he noted.