11 killed in Sri Lanka boat capsize

At least 11 people were killed and 19 others rescued on Sunday in Sri Lanka after the boat they were travelling in capsized off the country's southwestern coast.

The incident happened in the seas off Kalutara district, about 40 kilometres south of capital Colombo, police said.

The boat was part of a religious festival procession from the fishing town of Beruwala to a site close by. The tragedy happened when the boat was returning from the pilgrimage.

At least 11 people were killed and 19 others have been admitted to a hospital after rescue police added.

A search is on for other survivors with the help of navy and air force, reports said.

The authorities were still trying to ascertain the number of people travelling on the boat.