Airforce Ready To Airlift Bus Crash Victims

Colombo (News 1st): The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) has deployed helicopters to support rescue operations for the Ella-Wellawaya bus accident.

Specifically, they've stationed a MI-17 helicopter at SLAF CTS Diyatalawa and a Bell 412 helicopter at SLAF Station Weerawila, both on standby to assist. 

These helicopters are ready to airlift patients to Colombo or provide additional rescue support as needed.

The bus accident occurred on the Ella-Wellawaya road, and while the exact number of casualties is still being reported, it's clear that multiple lives have been lost and many injured. 

Deputy Minister of Local Government, Ruwan Senarath confirmed that the Tangalle Urban Council Secretary and 12 employees were among those who lost their lives in the tragic accident in Ella. 

He also noted that a team from the Tangalle Urban Council has been dispatched to provide support to the accident victims and their families.

The Ella bus accident has claimed 15 lives. 

According to reports, the bus was traveling from Ella to Wellawaya when it veered off the road and plunged into a deep gorge. 

The accident occurred around 9:15 PM, and rescue efforts were undertaken by the military, police, disaster management teams, and local residents.