At least 13 people have perished following a collision between an Indian naval speedboat and a passenger ferry off the coast of Mumbai, according to a navy spokesperson.
Among the deceased are three naval personnel, while over 100 individuals have been rescued, stated Maharashtra state chief minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Footage posted online shows the speedboat circling before striking the ferry, which subsequently capsized. The Indian navy attributed the incident to an “engine malfunction” and has launched an inquiry to determine the cause of the collision, as reported by local media.
The privately owned ferry was en route to the Elephanta Caves, a renowned tourist site, when it was hit by the speedboat. “A Navy craft undergoing engine trials lost control and collided with a passenger ferry,” the navy said, expressing regret over the “tragic loss” of life.
Gautam Gupta informed The Times of India that he initially believed the speedboat was performing stunts and was filming it from the deck when the collision occurred.
Anil Bamane, one of the first rescuers at the scene, described to the Hindustan Times newspaper the air being filled with cries and screams for help. Survivors reported to local media that ferry staff did not provide any instructions after the collision, leaving passengers to find safety on their own.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his condolences to the families of the victims and called the incident saddening. He also announced compensation of 200,000 rupees (£1,869) for the families of the deceased and 50,000 rupees for those injured in the accident.
This marks the second such incident within a month. On 22 November, two people were reported missing after a submarine collided with a fishing trawler off the coast of Goa.
Frances Ibiefo
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