A Kerala boat flipped and drowned on a beach in Kerala’s Malappuram district Sunday evening, killing at least 22 people, including seven children, according to the state government.
The event occurred at about 7 p.m. near Tuvalthiram Beach in the Tanur district. The boat’s owner has been charged with culpable homicide, according to the authorities.
Although the precise number of passengers on the boat is uncertain, 40 had tickets while many others did not. According to reports, the yacht also lacked a safety certificate.
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Indian Coast Guard personnel are engaged in the rescue work. Underwater cameras are being used to track down those who are still missing.
Leaders across the political spectrum expressed their shock and sadness at the incident.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled those killed in the Kerala tourist boat tragedy and announced a compensation of ₹ 2 lakh to the families of each victim.
“Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of ₹ 2 lakh from PMNRF (Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund) would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased,” the Prime Minister’s office tweeted Sunday evening.
Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased: PM @narendramodi
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 7, 2023
Congress leader and former Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi too wished for the speedy recovery of those injured.
“Distraught by the news of a houseboat capsizing in Malappuram, Kerala. My heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost their loved ones, and wishes for the speedy recovery of those injured.” “I appeal to Congress workers to assist authorities in rescue operations,” Mr Gandhi tweeted.
Distraught by the news of a houseboat capsizing in Malappuram, Kerala.
My heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost their loved ones, and wishes for the speedy recovery of those injured.
I appeal to Congress workers to assist the authorities in rescue operations.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 7, 2023
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said that he will visit the scene today and has asked the Malappuram district collector to launch an emergency rescue effort immediately. The rescue effort included police, fire, and health personnel, as well as Tanur residents.
The Chief Minister also declared Monday a day of mourning, with all official events postponed as a token of respect for the victims.
The cause of the accident has yet to be determined, according to the police.
