At least 13 people died and 108 were rescued from the Arabian Sea on Wednesday evening after an Indian Navy speedboat collided with a tourist ferry near the Gateway of India, officials reported. The tragic accident occurred around 5:15 pm near the Raigad Coast.
Navy Speedboat Crashes into ‘Neelkamal’ Ferry
The private catamaran ferry, ‘Neelkamal,’ was carrying around 110 tourists and five crew members to the Elephanta Islands when the Navy’s rigid inflatable boat, undergoing engine trials, struck it at high speed. The crash overturned the ferry, throwing most of the passengers into the sea near Uran, Karanja on the Raigad Coast, about 10 kilometers from the Gateway of India.
Videos captured by passengers on nearby ferries showed people struggling in the cold waters, screaming for help and flailing to stay afloat. A large-scale rescue operation was launched by the Indian Navy, Marine Police, Coast Guard, and local boats, including four helicopters and more than a dozen vessels.
Massive Rescue Operations Launched
After the incident, the Indian Navy sent four helicopters. The Marine Police, Indian Coast Guard, and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority joined the rescue efforts. Local fishermen and nearby ferries also helped. More than 14 boats were involved in the operation.
Rajendra Padte, the boat owner, confirmed that all passengers were wearing life jackets, which are now mandatory. Despite this, the cold water and fading light made rescue operations harder. Some victims were still seen wearing life jackets as darkness fell.
Although one death has been confirmed, officials fear the toll may rise. Unofficial reports suggest two more fatalities. Investigations are ongoing to determine if the ferry followed safety norms and regulations.
The tragic incident has raised concerns about ferry safety. Authorities are focusing on improving emergency response systems. The rescue operations continue, and officials are working to ensure all passengers are accounted for.
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