13 Dead as Naval Speedboat Hits Ferry Near Mumbai
In a devastating incident near Mumbai, a naval speedboat undergoing engine trials collided with a passenger ferry, resulting in 13 fatalities, including a naval officer and two personnel from the equipment manufacturer. The accident, which occurred at approximately 4 PM, left the ferry’s 110 passengers and the navy craft’s five occupants in peril.
#WATCH | Mumbai Boat Accident | The Indian Coast Guard carried out rescue operations after a ferry capsized near the Gateway of India.
(Video Source: Indian Coast Guard) pic.twitter.com/dAGOT83v2X
— ANI (@ANI) December 18, 2024
The Prime Minister has announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased in the boat mishap in Mumbai. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000. https://t.co/EPwReaayYk
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 18, 2024
The navy, in an official statement, reported that the speedboat lost control during engine trials and crashed into the ferry Neel Kamal. The ferry was en route from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, a popular tourist destination. Among the deceased were ten ferry passengers, while two survivors from the naval craft were rescued along with 100 ferry passengers.
Deeply saddened by the loss of precious lives in the collision between passenger ferry and Indian Navy craft in Mumbai Harbour. Injured personnel, including naval personnel & civilians from both vessels, are receiving urgent medical care.
My heartfelt condolences to the…
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) December 18, 2024
 A video of the incident, recorded by one of the ferry passengers, emerged hours after the collision, revealing the moments leading up to the crash. Initial reports suggested the ferry was sinking, but the cause remained unclear until investigations pointed to the collision.
Rescue Operations and Immediate Response
The Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Police launched a large-scale rescue operation involving 11 naval boats, three Marine Police boats, and a Coast Guard vessel. Four helicopters also joined the search and rescue efforts. Additionally, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority workers, local fishermen, and police personnel aided in the operation, ensuring the safe evacuation of survivors.
Footage showed passengers wearing life jackets being transferred to safety as the ferry began tilting dangerously toward the water.
Condolences and Compensation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the bereaved families, describing the incident as “saddening,” and announced compensation of ₹2 lakh for the deceased’s families and ₹50,000 for the injured. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conveyed his grief, calling the loss of lives “deeply saddening.”
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹5 lakh to the families of the deceased from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
Investigation Underway
The Colaba police have initiated an investigation into the incident and are in the process of registering an FIR. Authorities are working to determine the exact circumstances leading to the collision, with early indications pointing to a potential mechanical failure on the naval craft.
Tourist Route to Elephanta Island
The ferry route to Elephanta Island, located east of the Gateway of India, is heavily used by both locals and tourists visiting the historic Elephanta Caves. This accident raises concerns about the safety of marine traffic along this busy route.
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