Colombo, May 13, 2025 — At least 22 people have died and over 30 others were injured after a government bus plunged into a 100-foot gorge near Ramboda Falls in the Gardila region of Sri Lanka on Sunday morning. The bus was en route from Kataragama to Kurunegala and was reportedly carrying 60 to 70 passengers, many of whom were Buddhist pilgrims.
🚌 Crash Details and Emergency Response
According to local police, the bus veered off the road, hit a rock formation, and subsequently fell into a deep ravine. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and a massive rescue operation is underway, supported by military and civil authorities.
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Among the deceased are 16 men and 6 women.
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Several injured passengers are in critical condition and have been admitted to hospitals in Kotmale, Gampola, Nawalapitiya, and Nuwara Eliya.
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Two Bell 412 helicopters have been placed on standby at Ratmalana Air Base by the Sri Lanka Air Force, under the directive of the Defense Ministry, to aid in possible aerial evacuations.
⚠️ Government Mobilizes Aid and Investigation
Transport State Minister Dr. Prasanna Gunasekera confirmed that the government will provide LKR 1 million (approx. ₹2.5 lakh INR) as compensation to the families of each deceased victim.
The Kotmale Police has launched an official investigation into the cause of the accident, including assessing the condition of the vehicle and road safety measures in the area.
🙏 Pilgrimage Turns Tragic
Many of the victims were returning from Kataragama, a sacred site for Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims alike. The tragedy has cast a pall over religious communities across the island.
The Sri Lankan government has called for a review of road safety protocols on hilly terrains and pilgrimage routes, especially in central and southern highland regions.
📢 Rescue Mission in Progress
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Teams continue to extract passengers trapped in the wreckage.
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Local volunteers and first responders are aiding the police and armed forces.
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Officials caution that the death toll may rise, given the severity of injuries reported from hospitals.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.