15 killed, 27 Missing After Overloaded Ferry Capsizes In Zimbabwe
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
At least 15 people were killed and 27 remain missing after an overloaded ferry capsized on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe, officials said.
The ferry overturned on Tuesday after encountering strong waves, according to the Civil Protection Unit. At least 77 people were rescued.
Ferry was carrying more than capacity
The vessel, which operates between the northern town of Kariba and several islands and fishing camps, was carrying more than its approved capacity of 90 people.
Registered ticket records showed 114 adults and five crew members were on board. Officials said the actual number could be higher as children below the ticketing age may also have been travelling on the ferry.
Zimbabwe’s national police service said rescue operations were under way.
Bad weather hampered rescue
Witness Maxton Kanhema told AFP that the ferry had departed in bad weather and a large wave may have hit the vessel, causing its engines to stop.
He said nearby boats responded after a distress signal was spotted. A helicopter from Matusadona National Park, larger boats and divers from the local area and army also joined the rescue operation.
Kanhema said bodies were seen in the water and described the incident as a tragic scene. He added that bad weather delayed the rescue teams from reaching the overturned vessel.
An underwater search-and-rescue team has also been deployed on the lake.
Lake Kariba
Lake Kariba lies along Zimbabwe’s border with Zambia, more than 300 km northeast of the capital Harare.
The lake was created in the late 1950s and early 1960s after a dam was built across the Zambezi River. It stretches for more than 200 km and reaches around 40 km in width in some areas.V
