31 die in Bangladesh boat capsize (Third Lead)
March 13th, 2012 - 10:50 pm ICT by IANS
Dhaka, March 13 (IANS) At least 31 people were killed Tuesday when a boat with over 250 passengers on board capsized in the Meghna river after hitting a cargo vessel. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed deep shock at the loss of lives.
The accident took place in Munshiganj district, around 27 km from Dhaka, the Daily Star reported.
At least 30 passengers of the Dhaka-bound MV Shariatpur-1 double-decker vessel swam ashore.
Rescuers found the bodies floating in the water near Char Kishori area. The identities of the dead have not been ascertained.
The vessel left Naria town for Dhaka around 9.30 p.m. Monday.
Members of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, Rapid Action Battalion, police and fire brigade started rescue operations. Rescue vessels will try to bring out the capsized vessel.
Shipping Minister Shahjahan Khan has announced compensation of Taka 30,000 (around $370) for families with one dead and Taka 45,000 for families with more than one victim.
The government has formed a five-member committee to probe the incident.
Sheikh Hasina, in a condolence message, conveyed her deep sympathy to the bereaved family members and prayed for the salvation of the departed souls. She also ordered the authorities concerned to expedite the rescue operation.
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Tags: bangladesh, battalion, bereaved family members, cargo vessel, coast guard, condolence message, daily star, departed souls, fire brigade, meghna river, member committee, minister sheikh hasina, mv, prime minister, rapid action, rescue operations, rescue vessels, rescuers, shahjahan, sympathy