At least 13 people have died following a tragic incident off the coast of Mumbai, where a naval speedboat collided with a passenger ferry. The Indian Navy spokesperson confirmed that three navy personnel were among the deceased in the catastrophic event. More than 100 individuals were rescued after the incident, which occurred while the privately owned ferry was en route to the Elephanta Caves, a well-known tourist destination.
Eyewitness footage shared on social media captured the harrowing moment the speedboat, reportedly undergoing engine trials, spiraled out of control before crashing into the ferry, which ultimately capsized. The navy attributed the collision to an "engine malfunction."
A survivor, speaking to ABP Majha news channel, recounted the chaos, stating, "The speedboat crashed into our boat and water started entering our boat and it overturned. The driver asked us to wear lifejackets." The passenger described a desperate struggle, stating he swam for 15 minutes before being rescued by another vessel.
In response to the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the loss of life and extended condolences to the victims' families, hoping for a swift recovery for the injured.