Congo boat disaster death toll rises to 148, with more than 100 still missing
GuardianAPR 17
Congo Boat Fire: Death Toll Rises to 148, Over 100 Missing
Above: In the DR Congo, rivers serve as a primary means of transportation for its more than 100 million people. Image copyright: Luis Tato/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The Congo River system has become a death trap for citizens who have no choice but to rely on dangerous wooden vessels for transportation. Unfortunately, overcrowding and poor safety standards lead to repeated tragedies that could be prevented with proper maritime regulation enforcement.
Narrative B
The lack of reliable road and airway infrastructure across DR Congo's vast territory makes water transportation the only practical option for most citizens, forcing people to accept the risks associated with boat travel despite the known dangers.