Navy drops search after 6 die in Sri Lanka ferry tragedy – Asia News

Navy drops search after 6 die in Sri Lanka ferry tragedy – Asia News

Tragic Ferry Accident in Sri Lanka Leaves Six Dead, Ten Missing

On Tuesday (Nov 23), a ferry sailing the lagoon near Kinniya capsized early in the morning, catching locals by surprise and leaving a trail of sorrow.

What Went Wrong?

The boat, packed with students and teachers heading to a school across the water, plunged into chaos at about 7:30 am. The cause of the tipping has yet to be determined, leaving authorities and families with more questions than answers.

Rescue Efforts

  • Village residents, police, and navy teams flung themselves into the water, successfully pulling 20 people to shore—half of them children.
  • Those rescued were rushed to the nearest hospital for medical attention.
  • Despite hopeful dives by eight naval squads, the search for the remaining missing has been halted.

The Toll

Police spokesman Nihal Thalduwa confirmed that six souls, including four young students, have perished in the tragedy, while up to ten are still missing. The ferry was carrying no more than 35 passengers at the time.

Officials have called for calm while investigators sift through the wreckage, and families are left waiting for closure.

Note to Readers

Descendants of local fishermen and schoolchildren alike feel the weight of this loss—let’s keep them in our thoughts and offer support wherever we can.