An emergency hotline (1969) has been introduced for users of the Southern Expressway to provide emergency services.

Deputy Minister of Ports and Highways Nirmala Kotalawala said yesterday that the 24-hour emergency service units include the provision of ambulance, police, fire and rescue services.

"It will respond to users’ personal or medical emergencies while they are on the express way," he said.

An emergency lane would also be set up on the expressway.

After the express way is declared open all the users’ should follow the guide lines set by the Road Development Authority and also public awareness programme would be arranged.