The death toll after three Bangladeshi ferries capsized in stormy weather in a week increased to 146 today, rescue officials said, as hopes faded for 174 people still missing.

A trawler with more than 100 people aboard sank in stormy weather in Bangladesh today, leaving at least 30 missing, a police officer said.

A river ferry carrying about 250 passengers capsized early today during a tropical storm in south-eastern Bangladesh and many were feared dead, police said.