In a tragic incident in southwestern China, strong winds led to the capsizing of four tourist boats, resulting in the deaths of at least 10 individuals and leaving 70 others hospitalized.
On Sunday, a sudden surge of strong winds resulted in boats capsizing in a river in Qianxi city, Guizhou, prompting 84 individuals to plunge into the water, as reported by state media. The death toll has risen to nine following the discovery of one missing person’s body on Monday.
The incident occurred during the conclusion of China’s week-long May Day holiday, which is recognized as a peak travel season.
Chinese leader Xi Jinping previously called for “all-out efforts” in the ongoing search and rescue operations.
According to state media reports, President Xi highlighted the occurrence of similar incidents in recent times and emphasised the necessity of enhancing safety protocols.
Chinese authorities have been instructed to enhance public safety measures in anticipation of the peak tourist season.
Sunday’s incident follows closely on the heels of a tragic event that occurred just two months prior, where 11 individuals lost their lives in a separate accident involving a passenger boat colliding with an industrial vessel in China’s Hunan province.
Over the weekend, a tragic incident unfolded in the eastern city of Suzhou, where a sightseeing helicopter crashed in a newly-opened park. The accident resulted in the death of one individual and left four others injured on board.
