A devastating boat fire in the Democratic Republic of Congo has resulted in a lower death toll than initially reported, with 33 fatalities confirmed and 195 survivors rescued.
A devastating boat fire in the Democratic Republic of Congo has resulted in a lower death toll than initially reported. According to officials, 33 people have lost their lives, significantly fewer than the previously stated figure of 148.
The incident occurred at the confluence of the Congo and Ruki rivers near the city of Mbandaka, where a motorized wooden boat was transporting around 400 people. Heavy floods in the area had caused widespread disruption, with many Congolese choosing to travel by boat due to inadequate road infrastructure and public transportation.
Causes of the Blaze
According to Congolese police, cooking onboard the vessel is believed to have ignited the deadly blaze. The lack of safety precautions and overcrowding on the boat are thought to have contributed to the disaster.
Survivors and Response Efforts
The mayor of Mbandaka, Yves Balo, has reported that 195 people survived the disaster, including 22 burn victims who are being cared for at Wangata general hospital. The city’s emergency services are working to provide assistance to those affected by the tragedy.
Boat travel is a common mode of transportation in the Democratic Republic of Congo due to the country’s limited road infrastructure and public transportation options. However, this also increases the risk of accidents, particularly when vessels are overcrowded and safety precautions are not taken seriously.
The Congo River, the second-longest river in Africa after the Nile, plays a vital role in the country’s transportation network. Despite its importance, boat accidents remain relatively rare due to the risks involved.
The Congo River is one of the longest rivers in Africa, stretching over 4,700 kilometers.
It originates from Lake Tanganyika and flows through several countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Zambia, and Angola.
The river's basin covers about 6 million square kilometers, making it the second-largest river basin in the world after the Amazon River.
The Congo River supports a vast array of aquatic life, including over 1,000 fish species.
Investigation and Response
As authorities continue to investigate the cause of the blaze, officials have acknowledged that ‘confusion’ led to discrepancies in the reported death toll. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for improved safety measures on Congolese waterways.
