A tragic incident unfolded on the Busira River in northeastern Congo as a ferry, overloaded with people returning home for Christmas, capsized. The disaster has resulted in the confirmed deaths of 38 individuals, with over 100 others still missing. So far, 20 survivors have been rescued from the wreckage.
This devastating event occurred less than a week after another boat capsized in the same region, claiming the lives of 25 people. The ferry was part of a convoy of vessels, carrying primarily merchants heading home for the holidays, according to local officials.
An eyewitness reported that the ferry was carrying more than 400 passengers, making stops at multiple ports along its route. This has raised concerns that the death toll could be even higher than currently reported.
Authorities in Congo have repeatedly warned against overloading boats and have pledged to take action against those who disregard safety regulations on the country's rivers. However, in remote areas where road infrastructure is limited, many individuals have no choice but to rely on water transport.
Recent accidents have sparked criticism of the government for failing to provide adequate safety measures for river travel. The lack of flotation devices on the convoy has drawn particular ire from local officials and residents.
Overloaded boats sinking has become a disturbingly common occurrence in Congo, as more people opt for river transport due to security concerns on the few available roads. The ongoing conflict between Congolese security forces and rebel groups often disrupts land travel, forcing many to take their chances on overcrowded and poorly maintained vessels.
The tragic loss of life in these accidents serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the people of this central African nation, as they navigate treacherous waters in pursuit of basic necessities and connections with loved ones.
