The death toll from the cruise ship tragedy in Yangtze River has reportedly increased to more than 400. Nonetheless, several people are still missing in what turned out to be one of the worst cruise ship catastrophes in China in nearly seven decades.

According to Xinhua, up to 431 bodies have been found, but about 11 people are still missing.

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The company operating the Eastern Star have apologized for the accident, telling relatives of the victims that they share in their sorrow.

According to Reuters, the general manager of the company that operates the Eastern Star, Jiang Zhao, said "From the very moment this happened I have been immersed in sorrow." He added that the company will cooperate with the official investigation into the incident.

Beijing is not covering up its intent to launch a thorough investigation into the shipping tragedy. Reports indicate that the captain and the chief engineer of the Eastern Star have been detained for questioning.

Chinese officials have revealed that the government is helping relatives of the victims with the necessary aids including medical services.

Meanwhile, Xinhua has reported that rescuers are searching for the remaining missing passengers of Eastern Star. The boat was reportedly carrying up to 456 passengers on an 11-day tour when it capsized after being hit by a tornado. Only 14 people have been found alive.

Guangzhou Military Command officer Liu Xiaowu said in a report that rescuers are now focusing on the main body of the ship with the goal of completing the investigation within seven hours.

As the investigation on the sunken ship continues, China had suspended TV shows as part of the country's mourning. Advertisement and entertainment programs with celebration themes have also been suspended, according to Xinhua.

According to Los Angeles Times, relatives of victims have been mourning their missing relatives while criticising the lack of information from official sources. Officials have not revealed when relatives of the deceased would be allowed to identify their relatives or take their bodies.

While there are debates about the actual cause of the tragedy, LA Times reported that it is a natural disaster, according to a professor. "It is a natural disaster, not caused by human error; the rescue is difficult but the rescue team tried their best," professor Zhan Jiang said.

TagsYangtze River, ship sinks Yangtze river, Yangtze River death toll, Yangtze River Cruise Accident Death Toll, Yangtze River Cruise Accident, Eastern Star Cruise Ship