Indian Navy Speedboat Collides with Ferry Off Mumbai, Resulting in 13 Fatalities and Two Missing

Officials report that an Indian navy speedboat collided with a passenger ferry off the Mumbai coast, resulting in at least 13 fatalities and two individuals remaining unaccounted for. Maharashtra state chief minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that three navy personnel are confirmed among the deceased, and over 100 individuals have been successfully rescued. Online footage depicting the incident shows the speedboat circling prior to its collision with the ferry, which subsequently capsized. The Indian navy attributed the incident to an “engine malfunction.” Local media reports indicate that an inquiry has been initiated to determine the precise cause of the collision. The privately owned ferry, en route to the Elephanta Caves, a well-known tourist attraction, was struck by the speedboat on Wednesday at approximately 16:00 local time (11:30GMT). As of lunchtime on Thursday, search and rescue operations were still in progress for the two remaining missing passengers. The navy stated, “A navy craft undergoing engine trials lost control and collided with a passenger ferry,” further expressing regret for the “tragic loss” of life. Gautam Gupta informed The Times of India that he initially believed the speedboat was performing stunts and was recording it from the deck when it collided with the ferry. Another passenger aboard recounted to the media that he swam for 15 minutes before a different boat arrived to rescue them. Arif Bamane, identified as one of the initial rescuers at the site, reported hearing cries for assistance emanating from every direction. He described the situation as horrific, noting that individuals on board were unable to comprehend the events that had transpired. Survivors conveyed to local media that the ferry staff failed to provide any instructions after the collision, compelling passengers to seek safety independently. An unnamed navy official informed the BBC that both ferries and speedboats adhere to clearly marked routes, and the harbor possesses ample space to prevent potential collisions. He added that the precise details of the incident would emerge once the naval speedboat is retrieved. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his condolences to the families of the incident’s victims and characterized the event as saddening. He further announced compensation of 200,000 rupees ($2,352; £1,869) for the families of those who died, and 50,000 rupees for individuals injured in the accident. This marks the second such occurrence within a month, following an incident on 22 November where two individuals were reported missing after a submarine collided with a fishing trawler off the coast of Goa. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC does not assume responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.