The death toll from the tragic road accident near the 24th milepost on the Ella–Wellawaya road has risen to 15, according to police reports.
A further 18 individuals have been injured and admitted to hospital. Among the deceased are 9 women and 6 men. Police confirmed that the injured include 11 men and 7 women, along with 5 children.
The accident occurred when a bus carrying a group returning from a picnic plunged down a 200-meter cliff. The vehicle was transporting employees of the Tangalle Municipal Council.
Rescue operations were carried out jointly by the police, army, air force, fire department, and local residents.
