A ferry accident in northeast India left at least 68 people dead and over 100 others missing, officials have confirmed. The ferry was traveling along the Brahmaputra River from Dhubri to Fakirganj in Assam state Monday evening when severe wind and heavy rain caused the vessel to break apart and sink. Witnesses say dozens of passengers were swept away in strong currents.
Assam home commissioner Jishnu Barua said 90 people have been rescued from the river. At least 68 bodies have been recovered and more than 130 passengers remain missing. Rescue teams are still at the scene searching for survivors.
"Army, Border Security Force and other rescue teams with mechanized boats have moved to the site but nightfall and bad weather are hampering rescue efforts," Assam state chief minister Tarun Gogoi told AFP.
Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh released a statement saying he was "shocked and grieved to know about the loss of lives.”
###
Click here for more World News
