22 die as houseboat capsizes in Kerala’s Malappuram

Thiruvananthapuram: A houseboat carrying approximately 40 passengers capsized in the Tanur area of Kerala’s Malappuram on Sunday evening, resulting in the drowning of at least 22 individuals, most of whom were children.

As per the district administration, the current death toll is 22, and seven individuals are in critical condition, according to Minister V Abdurahiman.

Efforts to bring the overturned boat to shore are ongoing, as more individuals are believed to be trapped under the watercraft.

Rescue operations, supported by fire services personnel and volunteers, are underway.

The incident occurred around 7 PM, according to police, but the exact cause of the accident remains unknown at present.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the national relief fund for the victims’ families.