Ferry Disaster Near Mumbai: CM Fadnavis Launches Rescue Efforts
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Nagpur, Dec 18 (NationPress) Addressing the collision incident between a Navy vessel and a tourist ferry en route to the Elephanta Islands from the Gateway of India on Wednesday, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced in the state Assembly that the government is committed to providing all necessary support to those who lost their lives and those affected by the tragedy.
The matter was brought to the attention of the Chief Minister by Shiv Sena legislator Aaditya Thackrey and BJP MLA Mahesh Baldi during the assembly session.
“Reports have reached us regarding the unfortunate incident involving the ferry Nilkamal, which was on its way to the Elephanta Islands. Immediate assistance has been mobilized with boats from the Navy, Coast Guard, Port, and Police. We are maintaining regular communication with local authorities, and thankfully, a majority of the individuals have been rescued. Nevertheless, rescue efforts are ongoing. The district administration has been instructed to utilize all necessary resources for the operation,” stated Fadnavis.
He further noted that the government is working to determine how many passengers may have drowned as a result of the incident. He mentioned to the assembly that he had also viewed footage of the unfortunate event.
Additionally, Fadnavis confirmed that the government is assessing the number of passengers lost and will extend assistance accordingly.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed the collectors of Mumbai and Raigad districts to accelerate the rescue operations.
Currently, one individual has been reported as drowned while another 66 have been rescued from the 80 tourists aboard a private ferry involved in a suspected collision near the Gateway of India.
The maritime incident occurred around 5:15 p.m. when the ferry, carrying tourist passengers, was making its way from the iconic Gateway of India to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Elephanta Islands.
The Elephanta Islands, known for their globally recognized temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva and various other Hindu deities, are believed to have been carved from rock between 1,500 to 2,200 years ago, making them a must-visit destination in Maharashtra.
