Rescue teams have recovered 11 more bodies from the Aung Soe Moe Kyaw ferry, increasing the confirmed death toll to 51 after the vessel capsized on the Chindwin River in Myanmar’s Sagaing Region. Salvage operations are ongoing, with cranes and heavy lifting equipment being used to raise the 40-ton ferry and enable rescuers to search its interior. As of Wednesday evening, five of the vessel’s eleven compartments have been investigated, with around 70 individuals still reported missing.
The ferry sank on August 1st while carrying about 300 passengers, including many university students, teachers, and civil servants returning home for a Buddhist festival. Preliminary investigations suggest that the ferry may have hit a rock as it approached a village, but authorities are still probing the details of the incident.
Regional officials have indicated that the salvage operation has been challenging due to the wreck’s state and the remains found inside the ferry. The recovery effort intensified following the raising of the stern section, which led to the discovery of more victims.
Authorities report that 154 people were rescued; however, it’s believed that the number of passengers aboard greatly exceeded the ferry’s authorized capacity. Local reports reveal that the vessel had left Homalin bound for Monywa with both passengers and cargo beyond its intended limits. Four crew members have since been detained as part of the investigation due to allegations of overloading.
Ferry accidents are a persistent issue in Myanmar, where river transport is crucial for traversing the extensive inland waterways. Investigators will continue to look into the cause of the disaster as recovery efforts carry on.
Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.
