Ferry Capsizes Near Mumbai's Gateway of India, Resulting in One Drowning Incident
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Mumbai, Dec 18 (NationPress) A tragic maritime incident has been reported, with at least one individual confirmed drowned and 66 others rescued from a private ferry that was carrying 80 tourists. This incident occurred after a suspected collision with another vessel near the iconic Gateway of India, according to officials.
The accident took place around 5:15 p.m. when the ferry, named 'Neelkamal', was transporting approximately 56 tourists from the renowned Gateway of India to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Elephanta Islands.
Officials from the Joint Operations Command (JOC) and BMC stated that the ferry unexpectedly swayed and capsized near Uran, Karanja. Disturbing videos captured by passengers on nearby ferries revealed harrowing scenes of individuals calling for help, flailing their arms and legs in a desperate attempt to stay afloat, and trying to grasp their loved ones from sinking in the Arabian Sea.
Upon learning of the incident, a comprehensive rescue operation was initiated, involving four helicopters from the Indian Navy, Marine Police, Indian Coast Guard, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, local fishermen, and other ferry boats to assist the tourists.
It remains unclear if the 'Neelkamal' ferry was adhering to safety regulations and passenger capacity requirements.
According to Rajendra Padte, the owner of the boat, the 'Neelkamal' had set sail for its usual trip to the Elephanta Islands around 3:15 p.m., and the unfortunate incident occurred just a few hours later.
“All passengers were equipped with life jackets, which have become mandatory. More than 14 additional boats are currently involved in the rescue operations,” Padte informed the media.
Despite the presence of life jackets, many individuals struggling in the chilly seawater were seen without them as darkness fell, complicating rescue efforts. While one tourist has been officially declared dead, there are unconfirmed reports of two additional fatalities, with concerns that the death toll may rise, officials suggested.
The Elephanta Islands, known for their famous temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and various other Hindu deities—believed to have been carved into the rock between 1,500-2,200 years ago—are a significant tourist attraction in Maharashtra.
