Tanzania: At least 79 dead in Lake Victoria ferry disaster
At least 79 people died when a ferry capsized in Lake Victoria, Tanzanian state media said today, citing a regional governor, as the search for survivors continued. "At the moment the death toll is 79," said Mwanza Governor John Mongella. The number of those found alive after yesterday's disaster remains 37, with no more survivors found since rescue operations resumed today morning. Here's more.
MV Nyerere may have been carrying 200 passengers
The MV Nyerere may have been carrying as many as 200 passengers, double the ferry's capacity, when it capsized close to the pier at Ukara Island yesterday afternoon, according to the state media. Tanzania's Electrical, Mechanical, and Services Agency, which is responsible for the ferry services, said it was unknown how many passengers were aboard the MV Nyerere.
Overloading could be the reason for ferry's sinking
The aging ferry was also carrying cargo, including sacks of maize, bananas, and cement, when it overturned and then sank around 50m (55 yards) from Ukara dock. The cause of the accident wasn't immediately clear, but overloading is frequently to blame for such disasters.
