Investigation Launched Into Ella-Wellawaya Bus Tragedy

Colombo (News 1st): Department of Motor Traffic said that a special investigation has been launched into the bus accident that occurred on the Ella-Wellawaya road, near the 23rd kilometer post, resulting in 15 fatalities and 18 injuries.

Commissioner General of Motor Traffic Kamal Amarasinghe confirmed that two officers, including the Badulla District Chief Motor Vehicle Inspector, were sent to the scene. 

The officials are scheduled to conduct a full investigation and submit a report on the incident.

The bus, carrying around 30 passengers including Tangalle Municipal Council employees and their relatives, was traveling from Ella to Wellawaya when it collided with a jeep and veered off the road and plunged into a deep gorge at approximately 9:15 pm last night.

The accident has claimed 15 lives, including 13 Tangalle Municipal Council employees. 

17 people injured in the accident, along with two rescuers, are receiving treatment at Badulla Teaching Hospital, with four admitted to the intensive care unit.

Rescue efforts were undertaken by the military, police, disaster management teams, and local residents.