Mumbai, Ferry Tragedy: In a tragic maritime accident near Mumbai, a ferry carrying 110 passengers, including children and crew, capsized after colliding with a Naval speedboat. The incident claimed 13 lives, including 10 civilians and three Navy personnel, and left four others in critical condition.
What Happened?
The ferry, named Neelkamal, was en route from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island when the mishap occurred near Uran, Karanja, around 3:55 PM. The Naval speedboat, undergoing engine trials, reportedly lost control and rammed into the ferry. A viral video captured the chaotic moments leading up to the collision.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG), Navy, and local authorities launched a massive rescue operation, deploying 11 vessels and four helicopters. By evening, 101 people had been safely rescued, while the search continued for any remaining missing persons.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis provided an update, saying, "Two critically injured individuals are receiving treatment at the Navy Dockyard Hospital. The rescue operation is still ongoing, and we hope to have more clarity by tomorrow morning."
Ex-Gratia Announcements
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences via X (formerly Twitter), saying, "The boat mishap in Mumbai is saddening. Condolences to the bereaved families. I pray that the injured recover soon.Â
PM Modi also announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs.2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of the deceased.
Similarly, CM Fadnavis declared Rs.5 lakh as compensation from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for the victims' families.
The Chief Minister confirmed a joint investigation by the Indian Navy and the police to determine the exact cause of the accident and recommend preventive measures for the future.
The tragic event has raised concerns about safety protocols during naval trials and ferry operations in busy waterways.
The Mumbai boat mishap is a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of maritime travel and the importance of stringent safety measures. As rescue operations continue and investigations unfold, the nation mourns the loss of lives in this unfortunate incident.
