Thirteen people tragically lost their lives when an Indian naval boat collided with the passenger ferry Neelkamal off the Mumbai coast on Wednesday. The incident occurred around 4 PM, resulting in the ferry capsizing as it was en route from Mumbai's Gateway of India to the scenic Elephanta Island, which is known for its UNESCO heritage caves.
Initial reports indicate the naval vessel, undergoing engine trials, lost control due to a malfunction. This alarming event has led to widespread grief and numerous rescue operations from Navy and Coast Guard personnel working diligently to aid those affected.
According to the Navy, "An Indian Navy craft lost control due to engine malfunction... as a result, the boat collided with the passenger ferry which capsized." Among the deceased were ten civilians, one naval servicemember, and two representatives from the equipment manufacturer involved with the naval craft, as confirmed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
The horrifying collision resulted in significant chaos, as numerous witnesses recall the incident's sudden nature. One passenger recounted, "The speedboat crashed and water started entering our boat, and it overturned. The driver asked us to wear lifejackets." This evacuation effort proved life-saving for others as at least 99 survivors were able to escape the maritime disaster.
While rescue operations unfolded, local television channels displayed footage of the naval boat erratically zigzagging before colliding with the ferry. Tragically, the speedboat's engine trouble caused it to lose control, resulting in the violent collision with the Neelkamal ferry, which was packed with over 100 passengers, including children.
The intensity of the situation prompted immediate action from naval and coast guard assets. Search and rescue missions engaged four naval helicopters, eleven naval vessels, and three civilian rescue boats. According to the Navy's statements, survivors were quickly transported to nearby jetties and hospitals.
Upon confirmation of the fatalities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow, stating, "The boat mishap in Mumbai is saddening. Condolences to the bereaved families." The Indian government issued ex gratia payments of 200,000 rupees (approximately $2,356) to the families of those who perished, alongside 50,000 rupees for the injured. Maharashtra Chief Minister also announced financial assistance of 500,000 rupees for each family of the deceased.
The accident has raised questions about maritime safety and the protocols for naval crafts undergoing trials. Moving forward, the police have filed charges against the driver of the naval vessel following the survivors' complaints.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh added his condolences, stating, "Deeply saddened by the loss of precious lives...injured personnel... are receiving urgent medical care," emphasizing the government's commitment to supporting the families of the victims.
Community members and local authorities have come together to grieve the loss, waiting for answers about how such a tragedy could occur during what should have been controlled naval operations. Investigations are set to continue as families begin to process this disaster.
The Neelkamal ferry, popular with tourists heading to Elephanta Island, experienced numerous emergencies before finally capsizing. With the search operations continuing, These unfortunate events highlight the perils of maritime travel and the need for strict adherence to safety protocols.
With mourning families and rescue efforts still impacted by this collision, the Mumbai authorities are racing against time to finalize reports and support all affected during this challenging time.
These developments serve as a somber reminder of the vulnerabilities present within both civilian and military maritime operations, prompting calls for stricter safety measures to prevent future tragedies.
