Rise in mishaps during Avurudhu

Rasika Somarathna

There has been a significant increase in Avurudhu mishaps this year in comparison to last year, Police and Hospital sources said. The Police said various accidents, and crime, claimed at least 10 lives during the two days.

A majority of deaths were related to road accidents while there were at least four deaths related to drowning in the Eastern and Wayamba Provinces.

The Police said they arrested over 300 persons for drunk driving during the two days while at least 155 people were injured due to road accidents during the two days. Colombo National Hospital sources said around 480 patients sought treatment during the last 48 hours for injuries related to Avurudhu mishaps. The number of persons who received treatment at the Colombo National Hospital due to New Year day incidents witnessed an increase this year, hospital sources said.

The sources said 256 persons received treatment at the Colombo National hospital on Sunday and 130 are still warded. Among them, 45 persons were injured in road accidents, 40 injured from domestic accidents, 18 due to domestic violence, nine persons injured due to alcohol related incidents and two fireworks victims