Malappuram boat accident death toll rose to 22 on Monday. The incident happened in the Malappuram district in Kerala, where a tourist boat capsized near the Tanur coast. As per officials’ statements so far 22 bodies recovered, and the exact number of people on the boat remains unknown. More victims were trapped in the mud.
The incident took place around 7 pm near Tuvalthiram beach in the Tanur area of the district. A case has been registered against the boat’s owner for culpable homicide. Although the exact number of passengers on the boat is still unknown, 40 were with tickets while many others were without one. The boat reportedly did not have a safety certificate either. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Indian Coast Guard personnel are engaged in rescue work. Underwater cameras are being used to track down those who are still missing.
Kerala Health Minister Veena George called an emergency meeting of the State Health Department at midnight following the incident and directed the officials to ensure better treatment for the injured.
Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in the Tanur boat accident in Malappuram. Have directed the District administration to effectively coordinate rescue operations, which are being overseen by Cabinet Ministers. Heartfelt condolences to the grieving families & friends,
Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the loss of lives in the incident and announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased.