On December 18, 2024, a tragic maritime accident off the coast of Mumbai resulted in the loss of at least 13 lives and left survivors recounting harrowing experiences. The incident involved a collision between an Indian Navy speedboat and a passenger ferry named Neelkamal, which was en route to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Elephanta Island
The Incident Unfolds
The Neelkamal ferry departed from Mumbai’s Gateway of India around 3:00 PM, carrying over 100 passengers, including tourists and local commuters. Approximately 40 minutes into the journey, an Indian Navy speedboat, reportedly undergoing engine trials, lost control due to an engine malfunction and collided with the ferry. The impact was severe, causing the ferry to capsize and leading to chaos among the passengers.
Survivors’ Accounts
Passengers aboard the Neelkamal have shared their terrifying experiences during the collision. Vaishali Adkane, who was traveling with seven family members, recounted the moment of impact:
“Eight of us boarded the ferry at Gateway of India around 3 pm. About 40 minutes later, a white speedboat crashed into the ferry. We all fell. The impact was such that one of the men on the speedboat landed inside our ferry. About five minutes later, people started shouting and telling us to wear life jackets. No one wore life jackets earlier. We felt we were going to die.”
Another survivor, Dinesh Adkane, described the immediate aftermath:
“I saw some people fall off. They screamed for help, but no one came for 30 minutes. After that, boats came and rescued us. At the time of the accident, no one was wearing life jackets. When the ferry started drowning, we were told to wear life jackets.”
Rescue Operations
The Indian Navy and the Coast Guard and local authorities launched a significant rescue operation. Eleven Navy boats, three Marine Police boats, and a Coast Guard vessel were deployed, supported by four helicopters. Local fishermen and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority personnel also assisted in the efforts. In total, over 100 individuals were rescued and transported to nearby jetties and hospitals for medical attention.
Casualties and Official Responses
Among the deceased were ten civilians and three Navy personnel. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating, “The boat mishap in Mumbai is saddening. Condolences to the bereaved families. I pray that the injured recover soon.” He also announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conveyed his sorrow, noting that both vessels’ injured personnel, including naval and civilian individuals, were receiving urgent medical care. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced an ex-gratia of ₹5 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for the families of the deceased.
Eyewitness Footage
Dramatic footage of the collision has surfaced, showing the speedboat zigzagging near the ferry before the impact. In the video, passengers can be heard screaming in panic as the ferry begins to capsize. Rescue operations are also captured, with individuals being transferred to other vessels amidst the chaos.
Safety Concerns and Investigations
This tragic incident has raised significant concerns about maritime safety protocols in the region. Questions have emerged regarding the adherence to safety measures, such as the availability and use of life jackets, and the procedures followed during naval trials in proximity to civilian vessels. Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the collision and to assess any lapses in safety regulations.
Conclusion
The collision between the Indian Navy speedboat and the Neelkamal ferry is a somber reminder of the potential dangers present in maritime travel. As survivors grapple with the trauma of the event, there is a collective call for stringent safety measures and thorough investigations to prevent such tragedies in the future. The nation mourns the loss of lives and stands in solidarity with the affected families during this difficult time.
