A tragic accident on the Ella–Wellawaya road claimed the lives of 15 people last night (04).
The incident occurred around 9.00 pm when a bus travelling from Ella towards Wellawaya collided with a jeep, crashed into an iron fence, and plunged down a 1,000-feet cliff.
Rescue efforts were carried out by police officers, the Special Task Force, army personnel, and local residents. A total of 18 injured passengers were rushed to the Badulla General Hospital. Among the injured are eight men, five women, three boys, and two girls.
Police confirmed that the victims include nine women and six men. Their bodies have been placed in the morgues of Diyatalawa, Bandarawela, and Badulla hospitals. Search and recovery operations are still ongoing to ensure all victims are accounted for.
