A boat accident on the Nile River in Sudan has claimed at least 21 lives, highlighting the dangers of river transport amid the country’s collapsing infrastructure.

KHARTOUM: At least 21 people drowned when a boat sank in the Nile River in northern Sudan.

The River Nile State government confirmed the death toll on Thursday, listing the names of the recovered victims and warning that some passengers remained missing.

The accident occurred as the vessel was crossing the river between the villages of Tayba al-Khawad and Deim al-Qarai.

Eyewitnesses interviewed by AFP reported the boat was carrying 30 people.

The Sudanese Doctors Network stated that six passengers survived the sinking.

The group’s statement blamed the tragedy on the fragility of river transport and the absence of basic safety requirements.

It also criticised the complete absence of local authorities and civil defence rescue teams in the early hours of the incident.

Many Sudanese rely on single-engine boats captained by solo operators for river transport.

The country’s infrastructure has been collapsing due to a war that has raged for nearly three years.

The conflict has divided Sudan between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

This division has led to widespread road closures and a severe deterioration in public services, including medical and educational infrastructure.

The local government’s statement did not explain the cause of the accident.

 The Sun Malaysia