A small plane owned by Tanzanian airline Precision Air jet plunged into Lake Victoria as it attempted to land at Bukoba Airport in the north west of the country. The cause of the plane crash is unknown, and rescue efforts are under way for the 49 passengers who were believed to be on board.

The Polish government says experts have found toxic algae in water samples from a river on the Polish-German border. Thousands of dead fish have appeared along the Oder River after mass die-offs in recent weeks.

Water sports aren't popular in Niger, due to a lack of facilities. But the Niger River has become the new hot spot for water sports enthusiasts. Be it swimming or dugout races — young people love the competition.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Loire is France's longest river and the last that's still more or less wild. A unique set of flora and fauna live on its banks and islands. But this fragile ecosystem is threatened by climate change and invasive species. What is being done to face these dangers? We take a closer look.

Italy's northwestern Liguria region is hit by flooding and mudslides after heavy rain causes several rivers and streams to break their banks. The Letimbro river running through the coastal city of Savona turns into a torrent with muddy water and debris rapidly sweeping downstream.

Japan coast guard officers rescue a drowning dog in a river near the central city of Nagoya. They rushed to the site on a boat after receiving an emergency call from the dog's owner and safely rescued the Sheltie from the cold water.

Shallow graves are emerging and bodies are floating down India’s Ganges river as it swells with seasonal flooding. Makeshift cremations are being carried out as locals worry about possible health concerns.

The host city of Paris is hoping to organise a swimming competition for the 2024 Olympic Games. But first, a massive clean-up operation has to get underway. Some 360 tonnes of waste are dredged up out of the murky waters every year. Everything from bikes to scooters and old safes can pollute the waters, and these items must all be pulled out and recycled. Our colleagues at France 2 report, with FRANCE 24's Camille Pauvarel.

Heavy rain in Bolivia's Cochabamba region has triggered floods and mudslides as the Taquiña River overflows. Locals report some people missing as search and rescue teams are called in.

They pierce through the heart of most cities, yet their potential is often overlooked. Rivers are now offering a modern mode of transport and a cleaner way of delivering goods. The Down to Earth team takes a closer look.

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