Dozens killed in Hong Kong boating accident

(Vatican Radio) At least 36 people are dead after a ferry collided with a cruise boat in Hong Kong. Rescuers pulled more than 100 survivors from the water, some with serious injuries.

Rescue workers pulled survivors from the water and took them to Hong Kong hospitals.

The sunken yacht belonged to a local power company. It was taking more than 120 staff and their families to a fireworks display near Lamma island, Hong Kong.

The yacht was still afloat, but only its bows above the water. The Hong Kong fire department said people could still be trapped inside. Salvage crews pulled a barge with a crane alongside to try to prevent the boat sinking. But rescue workers reported difficulty getting inside because of floating furniture.


Meanwhile, the ferry stayed afloat, although some of its passengers reportedly had serious injuries.


The final human toll may be unclear for some time.

Hong Kong's waters are some of the busiest in the world. Many ferries shuttle between islands there. Hong Kong's leader has pledged an investigation.

Listen to the report by Alastair Wanklyn: