Tragic Bus Accident in Kotmale Claims 20 Lives, Over 50 Injured

COLOMBO (News 1st) - A devastating accident occurred early today on the Nuwara Eliya–Gampola main road, near the Garandi Ella in Kotmale, when a bus veered off the road and plunged into a precipice.

The accident claimed the lives of 22 people, including the bus driver.

More than 50 people, including the injured bus conductor, are currently receiving medical treatment.

The cause of the accident has not yet been determined.


The bus involved belonged to the Sri Lanka Transport Board and was operating its regular route from Kataragama to Kurunegala via Nuwara Eliya.

It was passing through this area early this morning.

The vehicle, registered under the number CP NC 1144 and assigned to the Kataragama depot, had begun its journey at about 10:00 PM last night.

Its route included stops at Tissa, Weerawila, Pannegamuwa, Thanamalvila, Wellawaya, Beragala, Haputale, Diyatalawa, Bandarawela, Welimada, Nuwara Eliya, and Kandy, before reaching its final destination in Kurunegala.

The accident happened after the bus had been traveling for approximately six hours.

At the time of the accident, there were more than 70 passengers onboard, including children.

Police suspect the accident may have been caused by the driver either falling asleep or suffering a sudden illness.

The bus driver also died in the crash.

The 44-year-old driver, a resident of Tissamaharama, has 16 years of experience with the Sri Lanka Transport Board.

Hospital officials said that the injured conductor is in serious condition.