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At least 18 people, including children, were drowned when a double-decker tourist boat capsized off the coastal town of Tanur in the Malappuram district of India's southern state of Kerala Sunday night, Indian Express reported.

Survivors alleged that the boat was overcrowded and that most of the passengers did not have safety life jackets.

According to officials, the incident took place at Thooval Theeram Ottupuram beach near Tanur around 7.30 pm.

According to local authorities, the boat, operated by a private entrepreneur, did not have permission to enter the waters after dusk but the operators continued the service as there was heavy rush of visitors Sunday evening.

There were around 35-40 passengers when the boat capsized while making the last trip of the day.

The state government declared an official mourning Monday for the victims, and cancelled all official functions for the day. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan would reach Tanur Monday morning, said an official communication from his office.

Later in the night, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. Ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased.”