Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India]: A ferry carrying 85 passengers, including five crew members, capsized near Uran, Karanja, off the Mumbai coast on Wednesday evening, leaving two people dead and five others missing. The ferry was en route to Elephanta Island when the incident occurred around 6:30 PM.
Rescue Operations:
- Rescue Status:
- 77 people have been rescued.
- Five passengers remain missing, while two bodies have been recovered.
- Five rescued passengers are in critical condition and receiving treatment.
- Efforts by Authorities:
- Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships and local police teams are leading the search and rescue operations.
- Assistance is being provided by the Navy, local fishing boats, and port authorities.
Official Statements:
- Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis:
- Confirmed the incident involving the ferry Nilkamal, which departed at 3:15 PM for Elephanta.
- Stated that the rescue teams, including the Navy, Coast Guard, and police, were immediately deployed.
- Assured that all necessary resources are being utilized to expedite the rescue operations.
- Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde:
- Directed the district administration to accelerate rescue operations.
- Personally coordinated with district collectors and police officials to monitor the situation.
Incident Details:
- The ferry was carrying passengers to Elephanta Island, a popular tourist destination.
- The cause of the capsize is yet to be determined.
- Efforts to locate the missing individuals are ongoing, with the authorities deploying additional resources to the site.
Public Appeal:
Authorities have urged locals, especially fishermen, to assist in the search operations and provide any information that could aid the rescue efforts.
Further updates on the situation are awaited.