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Chinese cruise sinks in Yangtze, hundreds feared dead

by IBNS 02 Jun 2015, 11:11 am

Beijing, June 2 (IBNS) Hundreds of people are feared dead when a cruise carrying 458 people capsized in the Yangtze River in Chinas Hubei province.

Reports said five bodies have been recovered so far while hundreds of passengers still remained missing.
 
The cruise, Eastern Star, was on its way back from a trip when the accident took place. However, it sent no distress signal, reports said. 
 

The ship, which has not completely sunk, is floating upside down in a big part of the river, China's state media said. Many people, most of them elderly persons, are trapped inside waiting for rescuers.

edia reports say that authorities were alerted when those who managed to escape and got to the shore, told them of the situation.

The cruise ship was carrying elderly tourists from ages around 50 to 80, travelling from the eastern city of Nanjing to Chongqing. The long journey took a turn for the worse as they are now trapped, waiting for rescuers to make their way in before the boat sinks.

Rescue operation is being stated to be hampered by strong winds and rain. Authorities have rescued 12 people so far and most have been taken to the hospital with minor injuries.