Dala ferry sinks in Yangon River amid heavy rain; three missing

Three people were reported missing after a sampan boat sank when crossing from Dala’s Thamada to Yangon’s Botahtaung after a heavy rain and strong winds.
With 10 passengers, including the sampan’s driver, U Myint Swe, the boat sank on its way on the river due to strong winds, and three people, including the driver, were missing.
“It was raining heavily and the wind was blowing hard, so the rescue workers found it difficult to find and rescue. A container truck in the municipal compound also overturned, “ said a local in Botahtaung Township.
The search and rescue operation by police forces, civil rescuers and boat drivers began at around 10:30 am when it became calm, and people are still awaiting confirmation of the number of missing people.
On July 24, at 8:17 am, a tree fell, blocking a street in Dala’s Ward 3, and one fire engine with permanent and reserved firefighters was dispatched to the area to clear the blockade, according to the Department of Fire Services.
There are 21 ferry terminals in Dala, and hundreds of people are crossing into and out of Yangon daily. Ferry sinking happens every year during the monsoon season, causing some casualties, according to reports.
The Yangon-Dala Bridge, which is currently under construction, is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. — Htun Htun/ZN/ED

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