SRINAGAR: At least 193 people have died in two separate boat accidents in northwestern Democratic Republic of Congo, officials confirmed on Saturday, according to Aljazeera.
The incidents occurred on the Congo River, a vital transport route in the region where overcrowded and poorly maintained vessels are common. Local authorities said many of the victims were travelling without life jackets, which contributed to the high death toll.
The first accident took place earlier this week near the town of Mbandaka, while the second was reported in the neighbouring Equateur province. Rescue operations have been hampered by poor infrastructure and limited resources.
President Félix Tshisekedi expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and ordered an immediate investigation into the causes of the accidents. He also called for stricter enforcement of river transport safety regulations.
Deadly boat accidents are frequent in Congo, where waterways are the primary means of travel for many remote communities.
