September 21, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Motor Traffic has concluded its investigation into the tragic bus crash on the Ella–Wellawaya road, which resulted in the loss of 16 lives earlier this month.
The department’s findings point to a combination of mechanical failure and human error as the primary causes of the fatal incident.
A five-member panel, tasked with examining the circumstances of the crash, determined that the bus involved had significant faults in its braking system—an issue which rendered the vehicle incapable of slowing down on a descent.
Investigators also noted that the driver, faced with a critical situation, was unable to regain control of the vehicle in time to prevent it from veering off the road and plunging into a ravine.
The full report is expected to be formally handed over to the Ministry of Transport and Highways tomorrow (22). The findings are likely to influence future regulatory reforms related to vehicle maintenance and public transport safety, especially on hilly and high-risk routes.
The accident occurred on September 04 near the 23rd kilometre post on the Ella–Wellawaya stretch, a winding mountainous road known for its sharp bends and steep inclines. The bus was transporting municipal workers from Tangalle and their family members on a group outing when the tragedy struck. Fifteen individuals lost their lives at the scene, while a sixteenth victim—a woman who had been hospitalised—succumbed to her injuries on September 12.
In the wake of the accident, the bus owner was taken into custody for alleged negligence in maintaining the vehicle. Authorities charged him under public safety laws but later granted bail pending further legal proceedings.
