More vehicles, better economy-- MotorTraffic Chief

Motor Traffic Commissioner General B.D.L. Dharmapriya told the Sunday Times that one of the reasons for the increase of cars was reduction in taxes.

Another reason for the increase in vehicle registration in other provinces was the end of the conflict, when large numbers from the north and east, purchased motorcycles, three-wheelers and trucks.

He said that the purchase of vehicles reflected an increase in personal income levels. “This could be considered a measurement in the improvement in the economy”.

In January, 47,461 vehicles were registered, while the average registered per month is between 40,000 to 50,000.

“For the first time in the history of vehicle registration in a year, it surpassed 500,000 last year, with the registration of 525,421 vehicles,” he said.

He said that there has been an improvement in the road network, but going by the vehicle registrations, more space will be needed on the roads. “It is difficult to avoid congestion on roads. Last year, we faced the problem of not having sufficient examiners to register so many vehicles, because, in addition to registration of new vehicles, they also have to handle transfers of vehicles.

He said all records need to be scanned and computerised to improve the services.