Malappuram Boat Accident: 22 Dead, Several Missing in Kerala

A tragic boat accident claimed the lives of 22 people, mostly children, in Kerala’s Malappuram district on Sunday evening.

The boat, carrying around 40 tourists, capsized near the Thoovaltheeram beach at Tanur. Eight people were rescued and are undergoing treatment at various hospitals. Four of them are said to be in critical condition.

What caused the accident?

The exact cause of the accident is unknown, but preliminary investigations suggest that the boat was overcrowded and had no safety measures.

The boat was a houseboat that was converted into a tourist boat without proper permission or registration. The boat owner and the driver have been arrested and booked for culpable homicide.

What are the relief measures announced?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF).

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the victims and ordered a judicial probe into the incident. He also visited the survivors at the hospital and assured them of all possible assistance.

Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 7, 2023

How did the rescue operations take place?

The rescue operations were carried out by a team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire force, police and local volunteers. The operations were hampered by darkness, strong currents and muddy waters. The rescue team had to use ropes and hooks to pull out the capsized boat and retrieve the bodies trapped inside. The operations continued till Monday morning.

How has the incident affected the tourism industry?

The incident has raised serious questions about the safety and regulation of tourist boats in Kerala, especially during the peak season. The state government has ordered a crackdown on illegal and unregistered boats operating in coastal areas. The tourism department has also issued guidelines for boat operators and passengers to ensure compliance with safety norms.