BAR1SAL. Oct 9: With the recovery of five more bodies the death toll in the launch capsize near Bhola's Char Zahiruddin rose to 32. Authorities fear the death figure could cross 45 with about 15 more bodies still to be recovered.

Salvage operation is continuing in full swing under the supervision of the DC and the SP of Bhola. Most of the bodies were, however, recovered by the efforts of the local fishermen.

ML Kazi, the small engine-driven passenger launch, has been salvaged and has been towed to nearly by Char Tamijuddln.

Sixteen of the recovered bodies have been handed over to their relatives.

The launch, overloaded with three times its capacity, had 160 passengers on board.

It was proceeding from, Bhola's Char Tamijuddln when one of Its engines failed near Char Zahiruddin. The vessel was caught in a strong current and capsized.

The DC Bhola has made arrangements for supply of relief to the affected passengers and has announced a cash grant of Tk 2000 per passenger.