Major Landslide Blocks Colombo-Badulla A4 Highway at Ellepola: Traffic Diverted via Alternative Routes

A major landslide occurred tonight, October 26, 2026, on the Colombo-Badulla (A4) main road between Balangoda and Pelmadulla, specifically at Ellepola, Deyiyangewela. Heavy rainfall triggered the collapse of a high embankment, sending a massive volume of earth and trees across the road, effectively cutting off all traffic flow in both directions. Following the incident, the Road Development Authority (RDA), local police, and disaster management teams were immediately deployed to the site. Excavators are currently working to clear the debris, though the road remains impassable for the time being. Fortunately, no injuries or vehicle damage were reported during the incident. To manage the traffic congestion, authorities have issued alternative route instructions. Vehicles traveling from Balangoda towards Colombo are advised to proceed via Weligepola to Pallebedda and then utilize the Embilipitiya/Pelmadulla road. Conversely, those traveling from Pelmadulla towards Badulla/Balangoda should divert through Pallebedda and Weligepola. Road safety experts emphasize that during heavy rains, mountain slopes become unstable, posing a high risk of sudden landslides. Motorists are urged to avoid non-essential night travel in hilly areas. If you observe mud-mixed water or small stones falling onto the road, treat these as warning signs of a larger landslide and move to a safe distance immediately. Always follow instructions from the police and disaster management authorities, and in case of emergency, contact the Disaster Management Centre at 117 or Police at 119.