13 Dead as Indian Naval Boat Collides with Passenger Ferry Near Mumbai, Over 100 Rescued

Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu): At least 13 people tragically lost their lives on Wednesday when an Indian naval boat collided with a passenger ferry, which then capsized off the coast of Mumbai. The incident occurred in the waters near the financial capital of India, leaving many passengers stranded.

According to officials, the Indian Navy vessel, which was undertaking engine trials in Mumbai Harbour, lost control due to an engine malfunction. As a result, the naval boat collided with the passenger ferry, causing it to capsize. The ferry, which was carrying over 100 passengers, was en route to the popular Elephanta caves when the collision occurred. Fortunately, 99 passengers were rescued, with rescue efforts still ongoing.

A passenger aboard the ferry described the horrifying moments after the collision, saying, “The speedboat crashed into our boat and water started entering, and it overturned. The driver asked us to wear lifejackets.” One passenger recounted swimming for 15 minutes before being rescued by another boat.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, tweeting, “The boat mishap in Mumbai is saddening. Condolences to the bereaved families.” Modi also announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹200,000 (approximately $2,357) to the families of each of the deceased and ₹50,000 to those injured.

The privately-owned ferry, Neelkamal, was headed toward the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Elephanta caves, when it capsized. This site, which dates back to the 5th-6th centuries A.D., draws thousands of tourists each year. Regular ferry services from Mumbai’s Gateway of India transport tourists to the caves, located just an hour away.

This devastating accident has sent shockwaves through the city, with investigations underway to determine the full details of the naval vessel’s malfunction and the ensuing collision.