Sri Lanka bus crash leaves 15 dead, dozens injured VIDEO

At least 15 people were killed and 18 others injured after a bus plunged down a steep precipice in central Sri Lanka on the night of September 4, police confirmed.

The accident occurred near the 24th kilometer post on the Ella–Wellawaya main road when the bus, carrying employees of the Tangalle Municipal Council, veered off the road and fell about 500 meters down a slope before coming to a stop, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

Among the dead were nine women, while the injured included men, women and children. Hospital officials said more than 15 patients have been admitted to the Badulla Teaching Hospital, with several reported to be in critical condition.

Police said the group had been returning to the southern town of Tangalle from an excursion in Ella when the crash occurred. Around 30 people were believed to have been on board the bus at the time.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident.

By Sabina Mammadli