Three dead 60 hospitalised in China after tourist boats capsize

BEIJING - Ten people have died and 70 were hospitalised after strong winds caused boats carrying tourists to capsize at a scenic spot in south-western China, according to state media on May 5.

The passenger boats overturned on the afternoon of May 4 on a river in Qianxi city, Guizhou province, state broadcaster CCTV said, sending 84 people into waters.

As of the afternoon of May 5, 10 were dead, 70 have been hospitalised and four were unharmed, state media said.

The last person reported missing earlier in the morning was found by rescue personnel around noon, but “showed no signs of life”, CCTV added.

Chinese President Xi Jinping urged “all-out efforts” in the search-and-rescue operations and treatment of those who were injured, Xinhua said.

Mr Xi also “underscored the importance of strengthening safety measures in tourist attractions” and other large public venues, the agency said.

Vice-Premier Zhang Guoqing was dispatched to the scene to oversee the rescue efforts, state media added.

An investigation has found the boats were not overloaded with passengers, CCTV said.

Sunday’s incident comes just over two months after 11 people were killed in a boat collision in central China.

The collision in Hunan province occurred when a passenger boat struck an industrial vessel, throwing 19 people overboard. AFP

Join STs Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.