Asia-Pacific

Boat sinks in Amazon River; at least two dead

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2009-12-23 00:45

RIO DE JANEIRO: A boat transporting over 90 people overturned and sank in the Amazon River, in Para state, Brazil's northern region, killing at least two people, local authorities said on Tuesday.

The accident took place on late Monday, between the municipalities of Prainha and Monte Alegre, 70 kilometers away from the city of Santarem. According to the authorities, at least two people died -- a woman and a child who have yet to be identified.

The boat, which could transport up to 100 people, was going from the town of Monte Dourado to Monte Alegre. It is not known yet what caused the boat to overturn, but it may have hit a sandbank. The water is muddy in the accident site, which might have hindered visibility.

Apparently, the boat was not carrying more passengers than allowed, but that information has yet to be confirmed. Ninety- three people were rescued, most of them by other boats which were passing by, and are currently staying at a nearby farm.

There are divers and teams with boats searching for more victims, who may have gotten stuck in the cabins. A helicopter with another team of divers has been sent to the location as well.

According to Major Augusto Lima, from the local fire department rescue squad, the access to the site of the accident is very difficult, which hinders the communication.