Mumbai today witnessed a heart-wrenching maritime accident when a speeding Indian Navy boat that was engaged in engine trials lost control and collided with a passenger ferry, the Neelkamal, which was carrying over 100 passengers to Elephanta Island, a famous tourist spot known for its ancient Hindu temples and mythological carvings.
Thirteen lives were lost due to the accident, including one Navy personnel and two individuals aboard the Navy craft. Some passengers were also injured; four of them are critical.
Rescue Mission
Soon after the collision, a major rescue operation was launched. The Indian Navy in conjunction with civilian boats managed to rescue 99 passengers from the distressed ferry. This rescue operation included four helicopters and 11 naval crafts for the quick evacuation of the survivors to a nearby jetty and to the hospitals.
Their rapid response contributes positively to the loss of lives being much lower than could have been initially expected.
Government Reaction
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed profound sorrow over the incident and announced a compensation of ₹5 lakh for the next of kin of each of the deceased.
He remarked, “The Maharashtra state government stands with bereaved families and shall extend all support.” Besides, the Chief Minister also ordered an inquiry to get to the bottom of the cause of this collision so that precautionary methods can be adopted to prevent a recurrence of such tragedy.
Eyewitness Accounts and Visual Evidence
A gripping clip of a video showing the moment of the collision has found its way onto the web. The footage shows the Navy speedboat weaving wildly before it suddenly cuts across the path of the ferry, into the head-on collision.
Panicked passengers are visibly seen fleeing from the throwing-up incidents. Eyewitnesses narrated the horror, and one survivor said, “It just happened so suddenly there was no time to react. A few of us were thrown off balance by the impact.”
Statements by Officials
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his condolences as he noted the “deep sorrow” in the loss of precious lives following the collision between the passenger ferry and an Indian Navy craft in Mumbai harbour.
He assured that medical assistance was being rendered on a war footing to the personnel injured in the collision on both vessels: naval staff and civilians. He also mentioned that there should be a thorough investigation to understand the events leading to the occurrence of this accident.
Safety Issues and Future Reforms
This unfortunate incident has instigated a serious concern regarding maritime safety protocols, particularly because of trials running adjacent to civilian transport routes.
Maritime experts are calling for a full-fledged review of the present safety measures to avoid ignition of such incidents in future. Some recommendations put forth included clearer communications between military and civilian vessels, stricter guidelines for trial work, and more training on emergency response procedures.
Public Reaction
The mix of grief and outrage is amplified with the public. The social media space saw an influx of condolences venting to the families of the victims and calls to hold someone accountable.
Local advocacy groups are urging the government to fast-track the investigation and to adopt a stricter safety protocol designed to protect passengers and crew members alike.
The authorities are expected to update on the details and further actions as the investigation proceeds. The nautical community and the public wait for related results in hopes of measures to boost safety and prevent such tragic incidents from recurring.
