Kathmandu— At least 92 people have died after a ferry capsized on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe last Tuesday, making it the deadliest such incident in the country’s history. Police confirmed the latest casualty count Monday following the recovery of eight additional bodies, and search efforts are ongoing to locate any remaining victims. The ferry was traveling from Kariba town to rural communities when it overturned during high winds near the Zambian border.

Search and Recovery Operations

Zimbabwean police have deployed significant resources to recover the bodies of those lost in the capsizing, including four boats and over 40 divers. Authorities expect all remaining victims will eventually be found as search operations continue on Lake Kariba. The initial report of 84 recovered bodies was updated Monday with confirmation of eight more.

Ferry Capacity and Overloading Concerns

The ferry had a listed capacity of 90 passengers, but authorities have not yet confirmed the total number onboard at the time of the incident. Earlier reports suggested the vessel may have been significantly overloaded, potentially carrying as many as 153 passengers and crew. The cause of the capsizing is believed to be high winds.

Regional Travel Challenges

Travel by boat is a common mode of transportation in the region due to limited infrastructure, including inadequate public transport options and poorly maintained roads. The ferry was en route from Kariba town to rural and fishing communities in the northwest of Zimbabwe. Video footage shared by local media showed large crowds gathered outside a hospital over the weekend attempting to identify loved ones.

Presidential Response

President Emmerson Mnangagwa described the incident as “tragic” last week, stating it highlighted critical deficiencies that require immediate attention. At least 18 children were among those who perished in the disaster.

Authorities continue to search for any remaining bodies and are expected to eventually recover all victims of the capsizing.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.