Mumbai ferry capsizes, leaving 13 dead; rescue operations underway

On Wednesday, a ferry boat carrying passengers from Gateway of India to Elephanta Caves capsized off Elephanta Islands near Mumbai.

In a shocking incident in Mumbai on Wednesday, a ferry boat carrying passengers from Gateway of India to Elephanta Caves capsized off Elephants Islands. In a briefing, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, “A Navy boat collided with a passenger vessel named Neelkamal at around 3.55 pm. 101 have been rescued, and 13 people have died.”

Defense vessel collided with the ferry.

The incident happened when a defense vessel collided with the ferry. The Elephanta Islands is off Mumbai and houses the famous Gharpuri caves, which is a tourist destination. Coast Guard inspector general Bhisham Sharma said, “The Coast Guard and Navy have joined the search operations. Our ships are in the area, and we are searching for survivors. The Coast Guard was alerted by the Harbour Master of the Mumbai Port Authority. The incident happened at around 4 pm.”

Rescue operation is underway.

The Indian Navy spokesperson said, “Rescue efforts launched by the navy in coordination with the Coast Guard and Marine Police. 11 Navy boats, three boats of Marine Police, and a boat of Coast Guard are in the area. Further, four helicopters are undertaking search and rescue.”

Devendra Fadnavis took to X and wrote, “We have received reports of an accident involving the boat Nilkamal, which was heading towards Elephanta. Boats from the Navy, Coast Guard, Port, and Police teams have been immediately dispatched for assistance.” He added, “We are in constant touch with the district and police administration, and fortunately, most of the citizens have been rescued. However, rescue operations are still underway. Orders have been given to the district administration to deploy all the necessary machinery for the rescue operation.”