The death toll from last night’s (Sep 4) bus crash near the 24th kilometre post on the Ella–Wellawaya main road has risen to 15, with more than 15 others injured and hospitalized.
According to hospital sources, over 15 patients have been admitted to the Badulla Teaching Hospital, several of them in critical condition.
The accident occurred when a bus carrying employees of the Tangalle Municipal Council, who were returning from an excursion in Ella, plunged about 500 metres down a precipice before coming to a halt. Around 30 passengers were reportedly on board at the time.
Rescue operations are continuing with the assistance of security forces and police, although poor visibility has hampered efforts. Several of the injured have already been rushed to hospital for treatment.
