Tragic Congo Lake Kivu Boat Accident: At Least 78 Dead, Dozens Missing | Viral Video of Lake Kivu Boat Capsize
Overcrowded vessel capsizes near Goma, sparking fears of a rising death toll as rescuers search for survivors.
At least 78 people have drowned and many more are missing following the tragic Congo Lake Kivu Boat Accident on Thursday. The MV Merdy, believed to be carrying around 278 passengers, capsized just as it approached the dock near Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo. The boat was reportedly designed to carry only 80 people, leading to fears that the death toll could rise as the search for survivors continues.
Witnesses described the chaos at the Kituku port, where many had gathered to greet friends and family. “On this ship, I had family members. Unfortunately, two of them died, and three are in the hospital,” said Nuru Alpha, who was anxiously waiting for his loved ones to arrive. The Congo boat accident has devastated many families, leaving them in mourning.
Survivors recounted harrowing experiences as the vessel capsized. Emmanuelle Furaha, a 17-year-old survivor, said, “We came from Minova around 8 am, and when we wanted to get to the dock, the ship capsized. That’s when I swam until I miraculously reached the shore.” This Lake Kivu disaster has highlighted the ongoing issues surrounding safety on the lake, where overcrowded boats are becoming increasingly common.
Reports indicate that the route across Lake Kivu has gained popularity due to ongoing conflict in the region, making overland travel dangerous. Traders and families often resort to this risky mode of transport. “If all of us had taken the road to Minova, we wouldn’t be witnessing this disaster,” lamented Adeline Bora, a local trader who lost relatives in the incident.
As investigations into the Lake Kivu boat capsize unfold, authorities have been urged to enforce water safety regulations. “What has just happened in Kituku is a scandal, and it shows that embarkation problems continue to be reported in Goma’s ports,” said Johnson Ishara, a local politician. Survivors reported that there were no life jackets available on the boat, which could have saved lives.
This tragic Lake Kivu accident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for safety reforms in the region. As the search for the missing continues, the families of victims are left grappling with their loss, hoping for answers and accountability following this heartbreaking Congo Lake Kivu Boat Accident.
Source: The Guardian
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