CM orders judicial probe into boat accident

Kochi, Feb 21 (UNI) Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan today ordered a judicial inquiry into the boat accident in Ovungal Kadavu in Periyar river that claimed 18 lives.

The Chief Minister also announced ex-gratia of Rs two lakh each to the relatives of the dead.

Speaking to reporters after visiting Angamaly St Antony's School, where the bodies of the victims were kept for the public to pay their last respects, Mr Achuthanadan said the probe would look into factors like boat safety and the timing of the picnic to visit Thattekkadu Bird Sanctuary by boat.

He said the excursion was undertaken by the school authorities, teachers and students, without giving serious thought to safety.

The Chief Minister also conveyed the government's condolence to the bereaved.

Meanwhile, police have recoverd the ill-fated boat from the river. It was brought ashore for further investigations.

UNI