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Two lives were lost and more than a dozen people injured when a municipal council excursion bus veered off the Ella-Wellawaya main road and toppled into a deep precipice, triggering urgent rescue efforts.
A tragic accident occurred on the Ella-Wellawaya main road when a bus carrying employees of the Tangalle Municipal Council on an excursion toppled into a precipice. The accident took place near the 24th kilometer post, leaving two people dead and at least sixteen others seriously injured.
Earlier reports indicated that nearly twenty passengers had been hurt when the bus fell off near the 15th kilometer post, though later confirmation placed the accident site closer to the 24th kilometer. The victims, all municipal employees, were traveling as part of an official excursion tour.
Rescue operations were immediately launched by local authorities, police, and nearby residents. The injured were rushed to the Badulla Teaching Hospital for urgent medical treatment. Hospital staff confirmed that several victims remain under close observation due to the severity of their injuries.
The Ella-Wellawaya road is known for its dangerous bends and steep drops, making it one of the most hazardous routes in Sri Lanka’s hill country. Police are investigating the cause of the accident, with preliminary reports suggesting that the bus may have lost control while navigating a sharp bend.
This devastating crash highlights the continued risk faced by passengers on Sri Lanka’s hill country roads, where poor road conditions and risky driving often lead to fatal outcomes. Families of the victims and the local community are left in shock as authorities continue recovery and support efforts.
