22 people dead after India boat capsizes

At least 22 people died when a double-decker tourist boat capsized in India’s southern state of Kerala, authorities and local media reported.

The incident happened late Sunday in Tanur, a coastal town in Kerala’s Malappuram district.

Dozens of people searched for survivors in and around the stricken vessel during the night, which was partially submerged. Some used ropes to stabilize the vessel while others were in the water, looking inside the boat’s windows.

“We have recovered 22 bodies, including 15 females and seven males. There are around six people in the hospital. Rescue operations are on,” a police officer from Tanur police station said.

According to Local newspaper Onmanorama, 11 people, from a family, including three children, had died in the accident.

Survivors told local media that many of the passengers were not wearing life jackets.

Survivors told local media that many passengers were not wearing life jackets.

It was not immediately clear why the boat capsized.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences to the families of the victims.