A tragic accident on the Ella-Wellawaya road left 15 people dead and dozens injured when a bus carrying municipal workers crashed into a jeep, broke through the safety barrier, and plunged 1,000 feet into a steep cliff.
On September 4, 2025, at around 9:00 am, a bus traveling towards Wellawaya collided with an oncoming jeep between the 23rd and 24th kilometer posts in the Ella Police Division. After hitting the jeep and the iron safety fence, the bus fell nearly 1,000 feet into a cliff, causing a devastating scene.
The bus was carrying 30 passengers, including the driver. According to police, six men and nine women, including the bus driver, died instantly from the impact. The victims were employees of the Tangalle Municipal Council returning from a picnic when the tragedy struck.
Among the survivors, six women, five men, three boys, and two girls were rushed to the Badulla Teaching Hospital with serious injuries. In addition, two bystanders who attempted to rescue trapped passengers also sustained injuries and were admitted for treatment.
The bodies of the deceased have been placed in the mortuaries of Diyatalawa, Badulla, and Bandarawela hospitals. Meanwhile, police confirmed that the driver of the jeep involved in the collision has been arrested pending further investigation.
Authorities stated that the Ella-Wellawaya road is notorious for its treacherous bends and steep drops, making it one of the most dangerous routes in Sri Lanka’s hill country. Police have launched a full investigation into the accident, examining whether reckless driving, mechanical failure, or road conditions contributed to the disaster.
This tragedy has once again spotlighted the urgent need for road safety reforms in Sri Lanka’s hill country, as families mourn the devastating loss of lives and communities rally around the injured survivors.
