WEB DESK

United Nations said more than 200 migrants are reported to have drowned off Libya in last three days. At least 1,000 people have died so far this year on the main migratory route linking Africa and Europe.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees said in a statement that it was shocked by the deaths and called for urgent action to reduce the continuing loss of life. It said there is need for urgent international action to strengthen rescue efforts by all relevant and capable actors, including NGOs and commercial vessels, throughout the Mediterranean.

According to the UNHCR, around 220 migrants drowned in three separate tragedies.