A tragic incident unfolded off Mumbai's coast on Wednesday evening when a passenger boat, Nilkamal, capsized en route to Elephanta Island. The unfortunate accident claimed 13 lives, including three naval personnel, while 101 passengers were successfully rescued. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed deep condolences and announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to the families of the deceased.
What Happened?
Nilkamal, carrying over 100 passengers, departed from Mumbai and was headed to the popular tourist destination, Elephanta Island. As the vessel neared the Gateway of India, it collided with a speeding boat, causing severe structural damage. Eyewitnesses described how water began to flood the vessel rapidly following the impact.
The Indian Navy, along with the Coast Guard and Mumbai Police, launched a swift rescue operation. Four naval helicopters, 11 Navy crafts, one Coast Guard boat, and three Marine Police vessels were mobilized to rescue passengers and recover casualties. Despite their efforts, 13 people, including 10 civilians and 3 naval personnel, succumbed to the accident.
One of the rescued passengers shared a harrowing account of the incident:
We were about five to seven kilometres into the sea when a speed boat began circling us. I was on the deck and feared it might hit us. Moments later, the speeding boat collided with full force, causing chaos. Some passengers in the speed boat were severely injured, while our boat began sinking as water gushed in.
The survivor recounted how injured passengers, including one who suffered a leg amputation, were carried onboard amidst the panic. The force of the collision left little time for passengers to react before the boat capsized.
Chief Minister Fadnavis Responds
Expressing grief, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the media and highlighted the ongoing rescue operations.
This incident near Mumbai is regrettable. Of the total passengers onboard, 101 have been safely evacuated. However, Navy doctors have confirmed the loss of 13 lives, including 3 naval personnel. Two seriously injured individuals are receiving treatment at the Naval Hospital, and we pray for their speedy recovery. The rescue mission continues with full support from the Navy and the police, Fadnavis said.
He assured that the incident would be thoroughly investigated in collaboration with the Navy and the state government. Additionally, Rs 5 lakh will be provided as financial aid to the bereaved families from the Chief Minister&rsquo's Relief Fund.
Rescue Operation
The rescue efforts were a coordinated operation between the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and local authorities. Key resources deployed included:
- 4 Navy helicopters for aerial surveillance and rescue
- 11 Navy crafts to navigate and recover passengers
- 1 Coast Guard boat and 3 Marine Police vessels for extended support
The joint forces worked tirelessly to ensure maximum lives were saved amidst challenging conditions.
The accident has sparked concerns over maritime safety protocols in one of India's busiest waterways. While the Navy and state authorities continue their search and recovery operations, an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause and lapses that led to the collision.
The tragedy underscores the urgent need for stringent regulations on boating activities and stricter monitoring of speedboats operating near passenger vessels to prevent such incidents in the future.
The Mumbai boat accident serves as a grim reminder of the unpredictability of maritime travel. While the prompt response by the Navy and rescue teams saved many lives, the loss of 13 individuals has left families grieving. The announcement of financial aid offers some solace, but a comprehensive safety overhaul is the need of the hour to ensure such tragedies are not repeated.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the victims, and we hope for a swift recovery of the injured.
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