Search and rescue efforts continue for the missing passengers from the South Korean ferry which capsized over two weeks ago. The death toll has risen to 226, with another 76 missing.

Authorities say the first phase of the search and rescue operation is expected to be concluded by May 15th. Over 100 ships, trawlers and cranes have been deployed in the search area. On Thursday, the search team scoured the fourth and fifth stories of the sunken ship. Search and rescue operations have been hampered by rapid currents and floating objects.

Nearly 50 divers are conducting search operations, while about 200 rescue ships and 37 airplanes have been deployed to help search for possible bodies swept far away from the scene. One body was found in waters around 2 km away from the scene.

The rescue headquarters say they will start searching the unopened cabins and public areas where many victims are supposed to have been staying.