Sri Lanka: 21 Dead After Pilgrim Bus Plunges Off Cliff

Sri Lanka Bus Plunge Kills 21, Injures Dozens A bus carrying Buddhist pilgrims plummeted off a cliff near Kotmale, Sri Lanka, on May 11, 2025, resulting in at least 21 fatalities and 14 injuries. The accident occurred in the early morning hours. The bus landed in a nearby tea plantation. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as volunteers rushed to help the injured. One survivor, interviewed at the scene, stated, "I was sitting at the front of the bus. It happened so fast." The driver was among those injured and transported to a hospital. Sri Lankan Transport Minister Prasanna Gunasena confirmed the casualty figures. Police have launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the accident. The incident has prompted renewed calls for improved road safety measures in the region. The bodies of 13 victims are being held at Kotmale Hospital.