The death toll from the tragic bus accident that occurred last night near the 24th milepost on the Ella–Wellawaya Road has risen to 15.
Another 18 people, including five children, were injured and have been admitted to hospital. The deceased include nine women and six men.
The accident took place when a bus carrying a group returning from an excursion veered off the road and plunged nearly 200 meters down a precipice.
It is reported that more than 30 passengers were on board at the time of the accident.
Rescue operations were carried out with the assistance of the Police, Army, Air Force, Fire Brigade, and local residents.
According to police, the steep and rugged terrain at the crash site posed significant challenges to the rescue efforts.
