India is in mourning after an overcrowded ferry capsized in the southern state of Kerala, claiming the lives of at least 21 people. The tragedy occurred on May 7, when the boat was carrying nearly 50 passengers, double its capacity, across the river in the popular tourist destination of Malappuram.
Rescue teams were quick to respond, but the search for survivors was made difficult by the strong currents and heavy rain. Survivors reported that many passengers were not wearing life jackets at the time of the incident. Several people are still missing and feared to have drowned.
The Indian government has announced compensation for the families of the deceased and ordered an investigation into the cause of the accident. Overcrowded and poorly maintained boats are a common sight in India, and safety regulations are often ignored. This tragedy serves as a reminder of the urgent need for stricter safety measures to be implemented in the country’s water transport sector.