Mumbai Boat Accident: Navy Crew Aware of Technical Faults Before Fatal Collision
The tragic collision between an Indian Navy speedboat and the ferry Neel Kamal off Mumbai's coast on December 18, which claimed 15 lives, was caused by technical faults in the Navy vessel. Overloading of the ferry further compounded the disaster. Investigations and legal actions are ongoing.
Mumbai: A preliminary investigation into the tragic collision between an Indian Navy speedboat and the passenger ferry Neel Kamal on December 18 off the Mumbai coast has revealed that a technical malfunction in the Navy vessel's steering assembly and throttle quadrant caused the accident. The catastrophic crash claimed at least 15 lives and injured dozens.
The Navy vessel was reportedly undergoing high-speed engine trials when it collided with the Neel Kamal, which was ferrying over 100 passengers from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, a popular tourist destination renowned for its ancient caves. Videos captured during the incident show frantic attempts by the Navy boat crew to steer away from the ferry, but the vessel was unable to execute a sharp turn in time to avoid the impact.
Survivors from the Navy vessel disclosed that the crew was aware of the malfunction prior to the collision. Despite this knowledge, the trials continued, resulting in the vessel losing control and striking the overloaded ferry.
Overloaded Ferry Exceeded Passenger Limit
The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) has reported that the Neel Kamal was licensed to carry a maximum of 84 passengers and six crew members. However, it was significantly overloaded at the time of the accident, with over 100 people on board. In response, the MMB has revoked the ferry's operating license and launched an investigation into the breach of regulations.
Rescue Efforts and Casualties
Of the 113 people aboard both vessels, 15 lost their lives, and 98 were rescued. The Navy boat had six crew members, only two of whom survived the crash. Rescue operations were conducted by multiple agencies, including the Indian Coast Guard and local authorities.
Legal Action and Ongoing Investigation
A case has been registered against the driver of the Navy craft at Colaba police station in South Mumbai under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) pertaining to negligence and endangering public safety. The Navy vessel is currently in custody as authorities continue their investigation into the devastating maritime accident.
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