Digital Sri Lanka: Online Traffic Fine Payments Launched in Nuwara Eliya and Hatton via “Gov Pay”
By Lions Roar Aotearoa (Diyatha News New Zealand) Technology Desk
NUWARA ELIYA, SRI LANKA — Thursday, February 5, 2026 — In a major step toward digitizing public services, the Sri Lanka Police has officially introduced the “Gov Pay” online payment system for traffic fines within the Nuwara Eliya and Hatton divisions.
This initiative, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Digital Economy, the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA), and Lanka Pay, aims to streamline the fine collection process and reduce the administrative burden on both motorists and law enforcement.
1. High-Level Launch at Nuwara Eliya
The official launch and awareness program took place at the “Aiswarya” Celebration Hall of the Nuwara Eliya District Secretariat. The event was presided over by high-ranking officials, including:
- DIG Priyantha Chandrasiri (Deputy Inspector General of Police – Nuwara Eliya Range)
- DIG W.P.J. Senadheera (Deputy Inspector General of Police – Traffic and Road Safety)
Key technical stakeholders were also in attendance, including Project Manager Udari Vithanage, Technical Officer Inuka Mayakaduwa, and Lanka Pay Project Manager Amila Ekanayake.
2. Instant License Recovery
One of the most significant benefits of the “Gov Pay” system is the convenience it offers to drivers. Under the traditional system, recovering a seized driving license after paying a fine could take days.
With the new digital system:
- Real-Time Payment: Fines can be paid instantly on the spot using a smartphone.
- Immediate Return: Once the payment is verified online, the police officer can return the driving license to the motorist immediately.
- Flexible Options: If a driver cannot pay on the spot, they can use the portal later by visiting https://govpay.lk/ and following the instructions.
3. Equipping the Force
During the ceremony, modern mobile devices were symbolically handed over to police officers in the Central Province. These devices are equipped with the necessary software to facilitate and verify online payments on the road.
DIG Senadheera, in his keynote address, emphasized that the primary goal is to provide officers with the technical knowledge required to guide the public through this transition. Motorists in the Central Province are encouraged to seek assistance from traffic officers if they are unsure how to navigate the online portal.
4. Part of a National Digital Roadmap
The expansion of “Gov Pay” into the hill country is part of the government’s broader 2026 Digital Roadmap, which aims to minimize cash transactions in government services. By integrating Lanka Pay’s secure payment gateway, the system ensures transparency and reduces the potential for “under-the-table” settlements, contributing to a more accountable police force.
