Kerala: At least 18 people have died after a boat capsized in the Malappuram district of Kerala, Minister V Abdurahiman informed on Sunday.
The rescue efforts are currently underway.
Fire and police units, officials from revenue and health departments and locals from Tanur and Tirur areas of the district were involved in the rescue operation, the statement said. It also said ministers Abdurahiman and Riyas would be coordinating the rescue operations.
According to the police, the incident occurred around 7 PM. Those fished out of the water were admitted to nearby private and government hospitals, it said. The exact cause of the accident was not known at present, police said.
PM Modi announces ex-gratia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives due to the boat mishap. He also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased. "Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased," PMO said in a tweet.
CM Vijayan condoles loss of lives
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan issued a statement condoling the deaths and directed the Malappuram District Collector to carry out a coordinated emergency rescue operation.
