Tragic Collision Between Indian Navy Speedboat and Passenger Ferry Near Mumbai: 13 Dead, 99 Rescued

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A tragic collision between an Indian Navy speedboat and a passenger ferry near Mumbai has resulted in 13 deaths and prompted a massive rescue operation.

At a Glance

  • 13 people, including naval personnel, died in a collision between a Navy speedboat and a passenger ferry
  • The accident occurred during engine trials of the naval vessel off Mumbai’s coast
  • 99 ferry passengers were rescued in a joint effort by naval and civilian responders
  • Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the collision and assess safety protocols

Naval Speedboat Collides with Passenger Ferry

In a devastating incident off the coast of Mumbai, an Indian Navy speedboat collided with the passenger ferry “Neelkamal” on December 18, 2024. The accident occurred during engine trials of the naval vessel, resulting in the deaths of at least 13 people, including an Indian Navy officer and two naval employees. The ferry, carrying over 100 passengers, was en route to the popular tourist destination of Elephanta Island when the collision took place.

Eyewitness accounts suggest that the naval speedboat appeared to be performing stunts before crashing into the ferry. A video of the incident showed the naval vessel overtaking the ferry and hitting it from the rear, causing panic and chaos among the passengers.

Massive Rescue Operation Launched

Following the collision, a prompt and collaborative rescue mission was initiated. The Indian Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Police, and civilian responders worked together to secure the safety of 99 ferry passengers. The operation utilized various high-capacity resources, including four helicopters and 11 naval vessels, to transport survivors quickly to safety at different jetties and health facilities.

“At about 1600 hours on December 18, 2024, a Navy craft (speedboat) undergoing engine trials lost control and collided with a passenger ferry, Neel Kamal, off Butcher Island. Four naval helicopters, 11 naval crafts (vessels), three Coast Guard boats, and an equal number of Marine Police boats were involved in the rescue efforts.” Navy statement

The rescue efforts were further bolstered by the quick response of a pilot vessel from the Jawaharlal Nehru Authority (JNPA). Unmesh Wagh, a representative from JNPA, stated that their pilot boat, typically designed to carry up to 10 persons, managed to rescue 56 people and transport them to the JNPA hospital.

Investigations and Accountability

In the aftermath of the tragedy, both the Indian Navy and the Chief Minister have ordered inquiries into the incident. The Navy’s preliminary investigation indicated a malfunction in the speedboat’s engine, which may have led to the loss of control. An FIR has been filed against the driver of the naval speedboat for negligence and reckless navigation.

“Our boat is equipped with all safety equipment like life jackets. When I was informed about the accident, I rushed to the spot. The video doing the rounds shows that the boat from the Navy dashed into the ferry.” Rajendra Padte

Concerns have been raised regarding the ferry’s passenger capacity and safety equipment. Survivors reported overcrowding and a lack of life jackets on board. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact number of passengers and assess any potential safety protocol lapses. This incident follows a similar collision in November, where a submarine collided with a fishing trawler off Goa’s coast, highlighting the need for improved safety measures in naval operations.

Government Response and Compensation

In response to the tragedy, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced an ex-gratia payment of â‚ą5 lakh for the families of the deceased. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also pledged additional compensation from the PM relief fund. These measures aim to provide some financial support to the affected families as they grapple with the loss of their loved ones.

As the nation mourns this tragic loss of life, authorities are focused on preventing similar incidents in the future. The ongoing investigations will be crucial in determining the exact cause of the collision and implementing necessary safety improvements to protect both naval personnel and civilian passengers in India’s busy coastal waters.

Sources:

  1. Mumbai: 13 dead as Navy speed boat on engine trials hits ferry off Elephanta
  2. Two missing and 13 dead after navy speedboat hits ferry off Mumbai
  3. At least 13 dead after Indian navy speedboat crashes into a passenger ferry

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