A coach carrying a group of foreign tourists collided with a truck transporting cement on the Southern Expressway this morning (17), resulting in the death of the bus driver and injuries to around 19 tourists.

The incident occurred near the 138-kilometre post between Beliatte and Aparekka in the lane heading towards Tangalle. The bus had reportedly crashed into the back of the truck at high speed.

The injured tourists have been admitted to the Tangalle Base Hospital for treatment. Reports indicate that approximately 30 Russian tourists were on board the bus at the time of the accident.