Mumbai Boat Accident: Navy Speedboat Collides with Ferry, 13 Dead and 4 Critically Injured
Mumbai Boat Accident: A tragic accident took place near Mumbai on December 18, 2024, when a ferry carrying 110 people, including children and crew members, was hit by a Navy speedboat. The ferry, traveling from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, overturned after the crash. Sadly, 13 people lost their lives, including 10 civilians and one Navy officer.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) carried out a major rescue operation, saving 101 passengers. However, four of the rescued people are still in critical condition and are being treated.
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How Did the Accident Happen?
The accident happened around 6:30 PM when the ferry, named Neelkamal, was close to Elephanta Island. A Navy speedboat, which was on a trial run with a newly installed engine, lost control and crashed into the ferry.
Officials said the engine of the speedboat got stuck at full speed, making it impossible for the operator to steer or stop the boat. Despite attempts to avoid the crash, the speedboat rammed into the ferry, causing it to overturn.
Live Video of Boat Accident
A video recorded by a bystander shows the Navy speedboat trying to change direction to avoid the ferry but losing control and hitting it instead. The video has been shared widely on social media.
A tragic accident occurred off the coast of Mumbai on December 18, 2024, when a Navy speedboat lost control and collided with the passenger ferry Neel Kamal. The ferry, carrying approximately 110 passengers, including 20 children, was en route to Elephanta Island.
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The Indian Navy confirmed that 13 people, including a Navy personnel and two members from the boat’s engine manufacturer, lost their lives. Meanwhile, 99 passengers were rescued and transported to nearby jetties and hospitals. Rescue efforts are ongoing to account for any missing individuals.
Massive Rescue Operation Launched
Following the collision, the Indian Navy, in coordination with the Coast Guard and Marine Police, launched an extensive search and rescue mission. According to a Navy statement, the operation involved:
- 11 naval craft
- 4 naval helicopters
- 1 Coast Guard boat
- 3 Marine Police boats
The survivors were quickly transferred to hospitals for treatment, while search efforts continued in the accident area near Karanja, Mumbai.
How Did the Accident Happen?
The Navy stated that their speedboat was undergoing engine trials when the collision occurred. A technical malfunction caused the boat to lose control and crash into the ferry. The ferry capsized, leading to the tragic loss of lives and the need for urgent rescue operations.
Government Response
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed deep condolences for the victims and their families. He announced an ex-gratia of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased.
In a statement to the media, Fadnavis provided details about the ongoing efforts, saying:
- 11 rescue crafts and 6 helicopters were deployed to carry out the search operation.
- The government is working closely with the Navy, Coast Guard, Port authorities, and Police teams to ensure all possible assistance is provided.
In a social media post, the Chief Minister said, “Orders have been given to deploy all necessary machinery for the rescue operation. Most passengers have been rescued, but efforts are underway to locate any missing individuals.”
Updates from the Assembly
While addressing the state assembly, CM Fadnavis shared early reports suggesting that 30-35 passengers were on board the ferry. Of these, 20 had been rescued, while search efforts were focused on the remaining individuals. A detailed statement is expected as the situation develops.
The accident highlights the need for strict safety measures during engine trials and passenger transportation to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.
