In a heartbreaking incident on Sudan’s Nile River, a passenger boat capsized, claiming the lives of at least 15 people while leaving four others missing. The tragedy unfolded in the Northern State as the vessel navigated between the villages of Taiba al-Khawad and Deim al-Karai.
Authorities report that the boat carried more than 27 passengers, including vulnerable women, elderly individuals, and children. High waves are believed to have caused the vessel to overturn suddenly. Rescue teams from the Civil Defense Unit rushed to the scene upon receiving the distress call, but by the time they arrived, over 15 lives had already been lost to drowning. The bodies were recovered, eight survivors were pulled to safety, and search efforts continue for the four still unaccounted for.
The Sudan Doctors Network confirmed the death toll in a statement, noting that local residents and civil defense forces are tirelessly scouring the river. The organization highlighted critical shortcomings in river transport safety, pointing to inadequate basic standards that contributed to this avoidable disaster.
They urged officials to deploy specialized rescue teams equipped with advanced search and recovery gear to expedite operations. More importantly, the group called for immediate reforms to bolster river transport safety protocols and prevent future catastrophes.
Sudan has long grappled with frequent accidents involving traditional wooden boats used to cross the Nile, especially in rural areas lacking bridges. Civil defense officials have repeatedly warned against traveling in flimsy wooden craft during flood seasons, emphasizing the heightened risks of capsizing and drowning.
This latest mishap underscores the urgent need for infrastructure development, such as more bridges connecting rural communities, and stricter enforcement of safety regulations on riverine travel. As search operations persist, the nation mourns the loss and hopes for the safe return of the missing.