The death toll in the Kerala boat tragedy climbed to 22 on Monday morning as the NDRF team search and rescue operation continues. On Sunday, a recreational boat, carrying 40 passengers, capsized in the Purapuzha River at Thooval Theeram tourist spot. The owner of the boat is absconding and a case has been filed against the driver. Tanur police have registered a case of culpable homicide against the boat owner Nasar. The boat owner who is a native of Tanur is currently absconding from police.
It has been alleged that the boat owner converted a fishing boat for tourist services. Officials also confirmed that the boat was operated without a fitness certificate issued for tourist boats.
The NDRF team along with the fireforce team began the rescue operations at 6 am today as they look for survivors. Only 12 of the victims have been identified so far. The deceased include several children and women.
Of those rescued, at least 8 people were admitted to the MIMS Hospital at Kottakal, of whom four are on ventilator support. So far around 20 people have been rescued and the search for finding more survivors continue.
According to the local media, the boat was overcrowded and there were no life jackets on the ferry that capsized. The location of the tragedy was closer to the sea and the boat slid towards one side and capsized 300 meters away from shore.
The passengers on the boat were from the Parappanangadi and Tanur regions in Malappuram district.
The recreational boat services here are only permitted to operate till 5 pm.