Individuals stranded in a bus swept by floodwaters on the Kala Oya Bridge along the Anuradhapura–Puttalam road are now taking shelter on the roof of a nearby residence.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is closely monitoring the ongoing rescue operation through live footage.

The Sri Lanka Navy has launched an extensive mission to safely evacuate those affected, after attempts made last night (28) were hampered by rising floodwaters and severe weather.

Those initially rescued from the bus remain on the roof of the residence awaiting further assistance, as adverse weather continues to delay rescue efforts.

Additional personnel from the Navy’s Active Craft Squadron, Diving Unit, and the Special Boat Squadron have been deployed to bolster the operation.

Video footage released this morning (29) shows President Dissanayake observing live updates of the mission.