Kariba, Zimbabwe: At least 15 people have died after an overloaded passenger ferry capsized on Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba. Another 27 people remain missing, according to authorities.
The ferry was carrying 114 adult passengers and five crew members when it overturned. Its official capacity was only 90 people.
As a result, concerns have emerged over overcrowding on the vessel.
77 People Rescued
Rescue teams have so far rescued 77 people from the lake. The survivors were taken to a nearby island after being pulled from the water.
They are being transported back to the mainland by rescue vessels.
More Read
Meanwhile, search operations are continuing for the missing passengers. Rescue teams are using boats and underwater search units to locate survivors and recover victims.
Passenger Numbers Could Be Higher
Zimbabwe’s Civil Protection Unit said ticket records confirmed 114 adult passengers were aboard the ferry.
However, the actual number of people on board may have been higher. Authorities said children below the ticketing age may also have been traveling on the vessel.
Therefore, officials have not ruled out the possibility that additional people could be missing.
Ferry Was Over Capacity
The ferry had a stated capacity of 90 people. However, at least 119 people were confirmed aboard based on the recorded adults and crew.
The vessel was therefore carrying significantly more people than its official capacity.
Authorities have called for the incident to be treated as a major disaster. An investigation is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Rescue Operation Continues
Rescue personnel remain active at the accident site. Boats and underwater search teams are being used in the operation.
In addition, aerial support has been used to assist search efforts.
More Read
The priority remains finding the 27 people still reported missing. Authorities are also working to establish the exact number of passengers who were aboard when the ferry capsized.
Lake Kariba lies along the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. It is one of the region’s most important waterways and supports transport and other activities for communities around the lake.
The ferry disaster has raised fresh concerns about passenger safety and vessel capacity. Further details are expected as rescue operations and investigations continue.
