Bengal trawler capsize toll rises to 82

KAKDWIP - The toll in the trawler capsize in Muriganga river of West Bengal rose to 82 as yet another body was recovered Thursday morning. As many as 71 people are still missing.

“One more body was found floating today (Thursday). The number of deaths is now 82,” South 24-Parganas police superintendent L.N. Meena told IANS over phone.

The trawler ferrying 246 people, mainly Muslim pilgrims, to Kakdwip in South 24-Parganas from Hijli Sharif in East Midnapore district, capsized Saturday morning.

The accident occurred near Ghoramara Island, about 150 km south of Kolkata, in the mouth of the Muriganga River where it empties into the Bay of Bengal. Ninety three people have been rescued so far.

“We are continuing the search operations involving the drivers from The Indian Navy, the coast Guard and the Kolkata Port Trust,” Meena said.