Rescuers try to turn over the boat. (Photo: CCTV)

GUIYANG, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Procuratorate in southwest China's Guizhou Province on Thursday approved the arrest of the owner of a boat that capsized on May 23, leaving 13 passengers dead from drowning.

Police investigation has found that Meng Yukai, the boat owner, was driving the boat with a total of 29 people on board, when the boat capsized on the Beipan River in Zhenfeng County.

Meng, a farmer, is among the 16 survivors who were rescued. The boat is for agricultural use.

The provincial government ordered a thorough check of water traffic safety in the province after the accident.