At least 30 people have been killed and about 100 injured after a packed ferry caught fire in southern Bangladesh, local officials say. The blaze on the three-decked vessel started in mid-river near the town of Jhalakathi as it sailed from the capital Dhaka towards the Barguna town. The number of casualties in Friday's disaster is likely to increase as many of the passengers have severe burns. Most died from the fire and a few by drowning after they jumped into the river," he said. Ferry accidents are not uncommon in Bangladesh with mishaps blamed on poor maintenance, lax safety standards and overcrowding.

Source: The Star December 24, 2021 18:25 UTC