Mumbai Boat Accident Responders

People cried for help, it was the worst tragedy we’ve seen: Mumbai boat accident responders”

Tragic Collision Near Mumbai’s Gateway of India: Navy Speedboat Hits Passenger Ferry

A devastating collision occurred near Mumbai’s iconic Gateway of India on Wednesday when a Navy speedboat rammed into a passenger ferry, resulting in the tragic loss of 13 lives. This catastrophic incident has left Mumbai in shock, while 115 passengers were rescued in a large-scale operation.

Chaos at the Scene of the Collision

Witnesses described the aftermath as chaotic and heartbreaking. Arif Bamane, a Mumbai Port Trust (MBPT) boat driver, recounted the intense moments of the rescue mission. “The scene was tragic and completely chaotic, with people screaming for help and crying,” he said. The ferry, which was en route to Elephanta Island, a well-known tourist destination, had exceeded its capacity of 80 passengers.

Heroic Rescue Efforts Saved Lives

Boat operators and fishermen were the first to reach the accident site, saving numerous lives. Bamane mentioned rescuing approximately 25 people, adding, “This is the biggest rescue operation I have seen so far.” Another rescuer, Iqbal Gothekar, a tourist boat driver, shared similar sentiments. His boat managed to save 16 people, and he recalled passengers desperately waving their hands for help.

One particularly heartwarming account involved the rescue of a young girl. Bamane and his team performed chest compressions and successfully restored her breathing. “Gradually, her breathing returned to normal,” he said.

Survivors Share Their Ordeal

Survivors narrated harrowing experiences of the capsized ferry. Vinayak Mattham, a tourist from Bengaluru, criticized the lack of life jackets on board. “When passengers boarded, they should have been made to wear life jackets,” he said, highlighting a glaring safety lapse.

Post-Tragedy Safety Measures

In the aftermath of the accident, ferry operators appear to have implemented stricter safety protocols. On Thursday, passengers noticed new life jackets being provided on boats, a step many claimed was absent before the tragedy. Some passengers expressed frustration, stating, “Had they taken such steps earlier, we could have ensured the safety of everyone.”

Navy’s Response and Legal Action

According to the Navy, the speedboat was undergoing engine trials when it lost control due to a malfunction, leading to the collision. A case has been registered against the Navy boat driver as investigations continue into the incident.

A Grim Reminder of Safety Needs

This tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing passenger safety on waterways. Ensuring adequate safety measures, such as life jackets and strict compliance with capacity limits, could prevent similar disasters in the future.

The incident has deeply impacted Mumbai and underscored the urgent need for vigilance in maritime operations.

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