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Khartoum, 12 February. At least 15 people have died after a boat capsized in northern Sudan. News agency Xinhua has given this information quoting sources associated with Sudan’s Civil Defense Authority. Xinhua quoted sources as saying that the boat was passing between the villages of Taiba al-Khwad and Deim al-Karai in Nile River province. There were more than 27 passengers on board the boat, including women, elderly people and children.

It is reported that the boat overturned due to high waves. After receiving information about the boat capsizing, the Civil Defense Unit team reached the spot. However, by then more than 15 people had died due to drowning. Everyone’s bodies were taken out. After this incident, four other people went missing, while the lives of 8 people could be saved.

Meanwhile, the organization Sudan Doctors Network confirmed the accident in a statement, adding that more than 15 bodies have been recovered, while locals and civil defense forces continue to search for the remaining missing passengers. The organization raised questions on the weakness of river transport and lack of basic safety standards.

Along with this, the concerned authorities were appealed to work expeditiously by deploying special rescue teams and search and recovery equipment. It also demanded immediate steps to strengthen river transport safety and prevent similar accidents.

Accidents involving the traditional boats used to cross the Nile occur frequently in Sudan, as there are few bridges connecting its two banks, especially in villages and rural areas. Civil defense officials have warned about the dangers of traveling in small wooden boats, especially during the flood season, in order to prevent drowning accidents.