112 Dead in Bangladesh Ferry Accident

Posted March 14th, 2012 at 8:50 am (UTC-5)
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The death toll from a ferry accident in southern Bangladesh has risen to 112, with dozens of people still missing.

Authorities say more than 200 people were aboard the ferry when it capsized Tuesday south of Dhaka after colliding with an oil barge.

Hundreds of distraught relatives waited at the Meghna River's edge Wednesday for news of their loved ones. The recovered bodies were lined up along the riverbank for identification.

Police say divers rescued about 35 passengers and some 50 managed to swim ashore on Tuesday.

The ferry plunged 20 meters to the bottom of the river after being hit by the barge. On Wednesday, the vessel was brought to the surface and rescue ships were towing the wreckage to the bank.

Ferry accidents are common in Bangladesh due to overcrowding, unsafe vessels and lax rules.