Dozens feared drowned as boat capsizes in Ganges

At least 35 people were feared drowned today after a boat capsized on the Ganges river in north India.

Police official Shivendra Yadav said the crowded boat was carrying 60-70 people travelling to a temple for a religious function.

The vessel, which was meant to carry about 30 passengers, capsized midstream. About 25 people managed to swim to safety.

Mr Yadav said rescuers had recovered 12 bodies so far.

The incident happened in Ballia, 250 miles south east of Lucknow, the state capital of Uttar Pradesh state.