Kerala boat tragedy one of the worst in state history: 10 points

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced a judicial inquiry into the Tanur boat accident which goes down as one of the worst in the state's history.

Tanur: Both Centre and state governments announced financial assistance for the relatives of deceased in the boat capsize on Sunday evening near Thoovaltheeram beach in the Tanur area of Kerala's Malappuram district. The toll climbed to 22 so far. The deceased comprised 15 minors out of the total 22 killed in the mishap. Eleven of the total number of dead belonged to the the same family, said Sports Minister V Abdurahiman and added that seven of 11 people rescued are critical. Here are 10 points as things unfolded.

1. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced a judicial inquiry into the Tanur boat accident which goes down as one of the worst in the state's history. The Chief Minister also announced financial assistance of 10 lakhs to the families of the deceased.

2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi who condoled the deaths announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the family members of each victim Earlier.

3. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Indian Coast Guard personnel are engaged in rescue work. Underwater cameras are being used to track down those who are still missing.

4. A special Cabinet meeting was held in Tanur under the leadership of the Chief Minister after visiting the accident victims at the Thirurangadi hospital this morning.

5. The Chief Minister said that the government will bear the expenses of those undergoing treatment in the hospital. A special police team has also been decided to investigate.

6. The government said to a probe team comprising technical experts will be tasked to carry out the investigation. The decisions were taken in a special cabinet meeting held in Tanur in Malappuram district where the accident happened.

7. The toll climbed to 22 so far. The deceased comprised 15 minors out of the total 22 killed in the mishap.

8. 11 of the deceased belonged to the same family. They were attending a family gathering in Tanur.

9. According to the police, the cause of the accident is yet to be ascertained. Initial investigations revealed that there were no adequate safety measures in place before the boat set out for journey. It is reported that the rescue operation was hampered due to absence of adequate light.

10. The Chief Minister also announced that Monday has been declared as a day of mourning with all government events postponed as a mark of respect to the victims.