Kottayam: The death toll in the Pathiramanal lake boat tragedy is reported to have risen to 100 with recovery of over 40 bodies. However there is no official confirmation of the death toll.

The ill-fated boat was servicing between Muhamma in Alapuzha and Kumarakam in Kottayam. According to police, the board was absolutely over crowded and was carrying passengers way beyond is capacity.

Many people jumped overboard and swam to safety. The search is still on for bodies. The Navy and Air Force have been called out for help.

The local people are also helping the rescue operations.

The ill-fated boat, owned by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), met with the mishap around 07:00 hours (IST) after it left the Muahamma jetty at 05:30 hours (IST).

Agencies