Lagatar24 Desk
Mumbai: Tragedy struck near Mumbai’s iconic Gateway of India on Wednesday as a ferry en route to Elephanta Island capsized, leaving one passenger dead and 66 others rescued. Search operations are underway for nearly a dozen more passengers believed to be aboard the ferry.
The vessel, reportedly carrying around 80 passengers, capsized around 4 PM after a collision with a smaller boat. While the exact number of passengers remains unconfirmed, rescue efforts are in full swing.
The Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Police have launched a coordinated rescue operation involving 11 Navy boats, three Marine Police boats, and a Coast Guard vessel. Four helicopters have also been deployed to aid in the Search and Rescue (SAR) efforts.
Videos of the incident captured the frantic rescue operations and the immediate response by authorities. While the exact cause of the accident is yet to be determined, priority is being given to locating survivors and ensuring their safety.
Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular tourist destination, draws significant daily footfall. The mishap has raised concerns about maritime safety protocols and passenger capacity management.
Authorities have assured that an inquiry into the incident will follow after the completion of rescue operations.
