In the tragic event, at least 19 lives were lost when a boat capsized while crossing the Tekeze River in Ethiopia’s northern Amhara region on Saturday.
The Amhara Media Corporation (AMC) reported the incident on Sunday, shedding light on the tragic circumstances that unfolded.
According to local officials, the ill-fated vessel was carrying an estimated 26 passengers when it sank around noon local time. In a glimmer of hope amidst the tragedy, seven individuals, including a child, were rescued in what authorities described as “difficult circumstances.” The survivors have been transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
The Tekeze River, which forms part of Ethiopia’s border with Eritrea before flowing into Sudan, has long served as a vital transportation route for local communities. However, this incident highlights the potential dangers associated with such crossings, particularly in remote areas with limited infrastructure.
As of Sunday, recovery efforts were ongoing, with only two bodies retrieved from the river. The challenging terrain and limited access to the area have hampered rescue operations, leaving many families in anguish as they await news of their loved ones.
This disaster occurs against the backdrop of ongoing unrest in the Amhara region, Ethiopia’s second most populous area. For months, the region has been embroiled in conflict between the Ethiopian military and an ethnic Amhara militia known as Fano.
Additionally, Amhara has been impacted by the neighboring Tigray conflict, with regional forces aligning with federal troops against Tigrayan rebels.
The remoteness of northern Ethiopia, coupled with strict media restrictions imposed by authorities, has resulted in delayed information dissemination. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by communities in conflict-affected and hard-to-reach areas.
As the nation grapples with this tragedy, questions arise about river safety measures and the need for improved infrastructure in rural regions. The incident also underscores the importance of timely information and emergency response capabilities in remote areas.
