MUMBAI: A fatal collision between an Indian Navy Speed Craft and the civilian ferry ‘Neel Kamal’ at Mumbai Harbour resulted in 13 casualties, including one Naval servicemember and two staff from a boat manufacturing company (OEM–original equipment manufacturer), according to the Indian Navy’s statement.
One of the Naval personnel and two OEM employees have been rescued. Meanwhile, a Board of Inquiry (BOI) has been initiated following the incident.
The accident occurred on Wednesday off Mumbai’s coast when a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) carrying six people–two Naval personnel and four OEM staff members–collided with the ferry, causing it to overturn.
The Navy craft was conducting engine test trials at sea when a suspected technical engine fault prevented the RIB from avoiding the collision.
Passenger recordings from the ferry documented the RIB’s failure to alter its course before impact, leading to its capsizing. “Rescue operations were launched by the Navy in coordination with Coast Guard and Marine police. 11 Navy boats, three boats of Marine police and three vessels of Coast Guard where pressed into action. Four helicopters have undertaken search and rescue (SAR) operation,” stated an Indian Navy official.
According to the Navy’s report, the incident occurred at 4 pm when their vessel lost control during engine trials and struck the passenger ferry Neel Kamal near Karanja, Mumbai. The ferry was transporting passengers between Gate Way of India and Elephanta Island. “The survivors picked up by Navy and civil craft in the area have been transferred to jetties and hospitals in the vicinity. So far 99 survivors have been rescued,” the Navy official confirmed.
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