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Tragedy strikes as boat sinks in River Nile state
At least 21 people have died after a passenger boat capsized in northern Sudan's River Nile state, a medical organization confirmed on Thursday. The vessel was carrying close to 30 passengers when it overturned due to high waves.
Rescue efforts continue amid fears of more casualties
The Sudan Doctors Network reported that rescue teams are still searching for potential victims, as the death toll may rise. Six survivors have been accounted for so far, according to an earlier statement from the group.
Dr. Mohamed Faisal Hassan, the network's spokesperson, told the BBC that the accident occurred Wednesday evening near Shendi. Eyewitnesses attributed the capsizing to rough waters.
Calls for urgent safety reforms
The medical group has demanded that authorities deploy specialized rescue teams and equipment to speed up recovery operations. It also urged immediate action to improve river transport safety and prevent future disasters.
"This painful humanitarian tragedy once again reveals the fragility of river transport and the absence of basic safety requirements," the Sudan Doctors Network stated.
Weak regulations blamed for recurring accidents
Dr. Hassan highlighted that many boats operating on the Nile are privately owned, with authorities lacking proper oversight and safety measures. He warned that weak regulation likely contributed to the incident.
Sudan frequently experiences accidents involving traditional boats, which remain a primary mode of transport due to a lack of bridges, especially in rural areas.
Conflict exacerbates infrastructure challenges
The country has been gripped by war since April 2023, when clashes erupted between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict has devastated infrastructure and displaced millions, though River Nile state has largely avoided direct fighting.
Despite relative stability in the region, broader instability has strained resources, worsening safety risks for civilians relying on river transport.
