A deadly collision between an Indian Navy speedboat and a passenger ferry near Mumbai claims 13 lives, raising serious questions about maritime safety protocols.
At a Glance
- Indian Navy speedboat collided with a passenger ferry near Mumbai, resulting in 13 deaths
- The accident occurred during engine trials of the speedboat, which lost control
- Over 100 people were rescued in a large-scale operation involving naval and coast guard resources
- An inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the collision
- Concerns have been raised over safety protocols in military and civilian maritime operations in India
Navy Speedboat Rams Passenger Ferry: A Catastrophic Collision
In a shocking maritime incident off the coast of Mumbai, an Indian Navy speedboat lost control during engine trials and collided with a passenger ferry, resulting in a tragic loss of life. The accident, which occurred near the popular tourist destination of Elephanta Island, has left at least 13 people dead and sparked a national conversation about maritime safety protocols.
Eyewitness accounts and video footage show the navy speedboat making a sharp turn before ramming into the side of the passenger ferry, which was en route from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island. The impact caused the ferry to capsize, throwing passengers into the water and creating chaos as rescue efforts began.
Accident in Mumbai Harbour: Indian Navy Craft Collides with Civil Ferry Neel Kamal, Rescue Operations Underway@indiannavy @IndiaCoastGuard
Mumbai, December 18, 2024: At approximately 1600 hours today, a tragic accident occurred off the coast of Karanja, Mumbai, when an Indian… pic.twitter.com/MWn0d6677x— Sea And Coast 🆇 (@seaandcoast1) December 18, 2024
Rescue Operations and Casualty Count
Maharashtra State Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed the grim toll of the accident, stating, “Doctors have declared 13 people dead.” Among the deceased were three naval personnel, one naval servicemember, and two representatives from an equipment manufacturer. The Chief Minister also reported that over 100 people were rescued in a massive operation that involved four naval helicopters, 11 naval craft, and four coastguard or police boats.
“I pay my heartfelt tributes to those who died in this accident,” Fadnavis added, reflecting the somber mood that has descended upon the nation.
The Indian Navy has taken responsibility for the incident, acknowledging the “tragic loss” and stating, “A Navy craft undergoing engine trials lost control and collided with a passenger ferry.” This admission raises serious questions about the safety measures in place during such trials and the coordination between military and civilian vessels in busy waterways.
Investigation and Safety Concerns
In the wake of the disaster, an inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the collision. The navy has attributed the accident to an “engine malfunction,” but the exact circumstances that led to the loss of control remain unclear. This incident follows a similar one in November involving a submarine and a fishing trawler off Goa’s coast, further intensifying scrutiny of naval operations and safety protocols.
Survivors of the accident reported a lack of instructions from ferry staff post-collision, leading to panic and chaos. This revelation highlights potential shortcomings in emergency response protocols on civilian vessels, an area that will likely face increased scrutiny in the coming weeks.
Government Response and Public Reaction
The tragedy has drawn attention from the highest levels of government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and announced financial assistance for those affected by the disaster. This gesture, while welcomed, underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for concrete action to prevent future incidents.
