31 die in Bangladesh boat capsize

At least 31 people were killed Tuesday when a boat with over 250 passengers on board capsized in the Meghna river after hitting a cargo vessel.

The accident took place in Munshiganj district, around 27 km from Dhaka, the Daily Star reported.

At least 30 passengers of the Dhaka-bound MV Shariatpur-1 double-decker vessel swam ashore.

Rescuers found the bodies floating in the water near Char Kishori area. The identities of the dead have not been ascertained.

The vessel left Naria town for Dhaka around 9.30 p.m. Monday.

Members of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, Rapid Action Battalion, police and fire brigade started rescue operations. Rescue vessels will try to bring out the capsized vessel.

Shipping Minister Shahjahan Khan has announced compensation of Taka 30,000 (around $370) for families with one dead and Taka 45,000 for families with more than one victim.

The government has formed a five-member committee to probe the incident.