Searching for the mising is still underway (Photo: VNA)
Da Nang (VNA) - Overloading is the initial reason of the recent capsize of a cruise boat in the Han River in Da Nang city on the night of June 4, leaving three people missing, according to the central city’ authorities.
The initial investigation results showed that the ship owner violated regulations on transportation of passengers and the boat was overloaded, Chairman of the Da Nang People’s Committee Huynh Duc Tho said at a press conference in the city on June 5.
There were 56 people, including four Malaysians, on board when the accident happened, he said, adding 53 have been rescued so far while three others remain unaccounted for, including two children.
Sixteen passengers are receiving treatment at hospitals and most of them declare better health status.
Searching for the missing tourists is still underway.
Local authorities have urged the Department of Health to actively treat patients and take good care of their family members.
The city has suspended all activities of tourist boats in the Han River for safety purpose while requesting relevant agencies to tighten departure procedures before resuming these activities.
Ship Thao Van coded DNa-0016 sunk in the Han River at 8:25 pm on June 4 after departure of 15 minutes. Its capacity is 28 seats.
Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc came to the site on June 5 to direct the settlement of consequences.
He urged Da Nang city to continuously search for the missing and support their family members.
He requested to promptly investigate the case and commence criminal proceedings against violators to have strict punishment.
Localities and sectors must devise specific plans to ensure waterway transport safety, he said.-VNA
