Deadly Boat Capsizing in Central DRC Leaves Dozens Missing
KASAI PROVINCE, Democratic Republic of Congo – A tragic boat capsizing on the Sankuru River in central DRC has left at least 64 people missing, sparking a desperate rescue operation in an area known for its perilous water currents.
The vessel, which was carrying approximately 120 passengers, overturned in the Kasai province. According to initial reports, rescuers have successfully saved 56 people from the river.
Search efforts are ongoing as teams scour the river for survivors, but the operation is challenged by the region’s strong and dangerous currents.
This incident highlights a growing and deadly trend of boat accidents in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Due to severely underdeveloped and poorly maintained road infrastructure, many residents are forced to rely on river travel. This often leads to the use of overcrowded, wooden vessels that are not equipped for safe transport.
A combination of factors contributes to the high fatality rate in such disasters. The boats are routinely overloaded with passengers and cargo, and critical safety equipment like life jackets is often absent. Furthermore, many of these vessels travel at night, which significantly complicates rescue efforts and often leaves many victims unaccounted for.
Today’s capsizing on the Sankuru River is a stark reminder of the urgent transportation and safety crisis facing communities in the remote regions of the DRC.
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