Zimbabwe Ferry Tragedy Claims 84 Lives as Toll Climbs

The death toll from a ferry disaster on

The death toll from a ferry disaster on a river bordering Zambia has risen to 84, authorities confirmed on Friday, as rescue teams continued to search for more victims.

The vessel capsized on Thursday afternoon after being struck by sudden, powerful gusts of wind near the town of Kariba, a popular tourist and fishing hub. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as passengers, many of whom were believed to be workers and traders returning from a nearby market, were thrown into the churning waters.

Local officials said the boat was overcrowded, carrying more people than its permitted capacity, which likely contributed to the severity of the incident. Emergency response units, including police divers and volunteer fishermen, have been scouring the lake and shoreline since the accident, recovering bodies and aiding survivors.

So far, 84 bodies have been recovered, while

So far, 84 bodies have been recovered, while at least 30 people have been rescued and taken to local clinics for treatment. The exact number of passengers aboard remains unclear, raising fears that the final casualty figure could climb higher as search operations continue.

Government representatives have pledged a full investigation into the cause of the capsizing and have promised support for the families of the deceased. In a statement, the country's disaster management agency urged boat operators to enforce stricter safety measures, particularly during the current stormy season when weather conditions can change rapidly.

The tragedy has cast a somber mood over the region, with local leaders calling for a day of mourning. Meanwhile, relatives of the missing have gathered at the lakeshore, anxiously awaiting news as divers resume their work at first light.