According to the report, the bus had a grease leak in the rear wheel brake system, and the braking mechanism had not been properly maintained. Investigators also found that the front and rear brake drums had changed color due to overheating, indicating excessive wear and failure in the system.
The findings further state that the bus was driven by a young driver, Chirat Dimanka, who was unfamiliar with the steep slopes and sharp bends of the Ella-Wellawaya road. The committee observed that the accident occurred as a result of both poor vehicle condition and driver inexperience.
The 52-page report, prepared by a five-member committee including a Deputy Commissioner General of the Department of Motor Traffic, was handed over to Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation Bimal Ratnayake yesterday (22). It also highlights that the bus, bearing number NB-1673, had questionable registration details, raising concerns about its identity.
The accident took place on September 4 near the 24th-kilometer post on the Ella-Wellawaya road, while employees of the Tangalle Municipal Council and their families were on a picnic trip. Sixteen passengers were killed and 18 others sustained injuries in the incident.
