Hyderabad, April 15: At least 250 people went missing after a boat sank in the Andaman Sea. The victims included Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi nationals. The vessel was heading to Malaysia, according to UNHCR and International Organization for Migration.
The agencies said the trawler left Teknaf in Cox’s Bazar district. It was carrying a large number of passengers. However, overcrowding and rough seas led to the disaster. Strong winds reportedly caused the vessel to lose control.
Search operations remained unclear on Wednesday. Authorities have not confirmed the number of survivors so far.
Andaman Sea boat tragedy highlights Rohingya crisis
The agencies linked the tragedy to the prolonged Rohingya crisis. Many refugees continue to live in difficult conditions in Bangladesh camps. As a result, some attempt dangerous sea journeys for better opportunities.
Ongoing violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine state has delayed safe return. In addition, limited access to jobs and education worsens their situation. Therefore, many fall prey to risky migration routes and false promises.
Bangladesh currently shelters over one million Rohingya refugees. The agencies urged global support to address the crisis. They called for increased funding and humanitarian assistance to prevent such incidents.
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