(CNN) An overcrowded ferry capsized in the Tigris River near Mosul, killing at least 102 people during Nowruz and Mother's Day celebrations on Thursday, officials said.

Among the victims were at least 12 children, officials have said.

Of the more than 170 people who were on board, about 60 are missing, said Mosul Mayor Zuhair al-Araji.

The ferry was transporting people from a bank of the river to a small tourist island called Umm al-Rabeein.

"My family was happy and preparing food to celebrate Nowruz," said survivor Omtir Tajuddin, who lost his mother. Nowruz is the Persian New Year , while Mother's Day is also celebrated on March 21 in the Arab world.

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