Mumbai, Dec. 19: A grievous collision between a tourist boat and a naval patrol vessel in the Arabian Sea near Mumbai on Wednesday claimed 13 lives, including four naval personnel and nine civilians.
The Nilkamal boat, en route to the Elephanta Caves, sank after the collision, officials said.
The accident occurred around 3:55 p.m. near Butcher Island, as the boat carrying approximately 110 passengers, including 20 children, began filling with water after impact. Though the boat’s capacity is 80, it was significantly overcrowded.
Rescue operations managed to save 101 people, who were later hospitalized, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed the Assembly.
Announcing compensation, he said, “The state government will provide Rs 5 lakh to the families of each deceased.”
Preliminary reports suggest the Nilkamal collided with a speeding Navy patrol boat during its journey from the Gateway of India to Elephanta. Investigations will be conducted jointly by the Navy and police to determine the cause of the accident.
Authorities have tightened safety protocols along the busy maritime route while officials continue to gather more details about the sequence of events leading to the disaster.
