August 12, Colombo (LNW): A serious road accident in the early hours of this morning has left 26 people injured following a collision between a long-distance passenger bus and a heavy-duty tipper truck on the Colombo–Batticaloa highway near Batu Oya in Minneriya.
The crash, which occurred at approximately 3:00 a.m. this morning, involved a bus travelling from Maduroya towards Colombo and a tipper lorry that was reportedly moving in the opposite direction. Initial reports suggest that the impact was severe, leaving the front sections of both vehicles significantly damaged.
Emergency response teams were dispatched to the scene shortly after the incident, and the injured were rushed to nearby hospitals in Polonnaruwa, Minneriya, and Hingurakgoda for urgent medical treatment.
Medical staff at the hospitals have confirmed that several victims are in critical condition, with some requiring intensive care due to the extent of their injuries.
Minneriya Police have launched a full inquiry to determine whether any traffic violations or negligence contributed to the incident. Authorities are also expected to examine the mechanical condition of both vehicles involved and will likely obtain statements from surviving passengers and witnesses.
