A tragic accident near Mumbai has left 13 people dead after a passenger ferry collided with a navy speedboat. Among those killed were 10 civilians and three navy personnel. The ferry, Neelkamal, was heading to the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular tourist spot.
The crash led to a massive rescue operation by the Indian Coast Guard, navy, and police. Video footage showed emergency teams saving dozens of passengers and moving them to other boats. Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, said 101 people had been rescued, with 11 navy boats and four helicopters involved in the mission.
Elephanta Caves Ferry Accident Claims 13 Lives
Two people are critically injured and are being treated in the hospital. The cause of the collision is not yet clear and is being investigated by the police and navy.
Chief Minister Fadnavis offered his condolences to the victims’ families and announced financial aid of 500,000 rupees (around $5,890) for each family. “We stand with the grieving families during this tough time,” he said.
The Elephanta Caves, known for their ancient sculptures, attract many visitors. This tragic incident has raised concerns about safety on the water near Mumbai. Authorities have promised a thorough investigation to prevent similar accidents in the future.