December 19, 2024, 12:00 PM IST – Mumbai Boat Accident: Two individuals, a 43-year-old man and a seven-year-old boy, remain unaccounted for following a tragic collision between a Navy vessel conducting engine trials and a passenger ferry off the Mumbai coast. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday afternoon, has left the city grappling with the aftermath of one of its most devastating maritime accidents in recent years.
According to Mumbai police, the missing individuals have been identified as Hansraj Bhati, 43, and Johan Mohammad Nisar Ahmed Pathan, 7. Efforts to locate them are ongoing, with extensive search operations being carried out by the Navy and the Coast Guard.
The collision involved the Navy craft and the passenger ferry ‘Neel Kamal,’ which was transporting over 100 passengers from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island. Of the 113 people aboard the two vessels, 13 lost their lives, including a Navy personnel and two contractual naval employees. Authorities confirmed that 98 individuals were rescued, among them two who sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical care.
The tragic event unfolded as the Navy craft was conducting routine engine trials in the vicinity of the busy maritime route. Officials stated that investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the collision, with particular focus on whether there was any failure in communication or navigation systems.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic and distressing, with passengers thrown off balance as the vessels collided. “It happened so suddenly. We heard a loud crash, and people started screaming. Some were thrown into the water,” recounted one survivor who was aboard the ferry.
In the immediate aftermath of the accident, rescue operations were launched, involving a coordinated effort between the Navy, Coast Guard, and local authorities. Divers, helicopters, and patrol boats were deployed to search for survivors and recover bodies. By Thursday morning, 13 fatalities had been confirmed, but hopes remain that the two missing individuals might still be found alive.
Family members of the missing are clinging to hope while grappling with uncertainty. “We just want them to come back. We are praying for a miracle,” said a relative of Hansraj Bhati. Similarly, Johan’s family expressed anguish but urged rescuers to continue their efforts tirelessly.
The incident has sparked widespread discussions about maritime safety and the protocols followed by vessels in shared waterways. Questions are being raised about whether proper measures were in place to prevent such an accident. Maritime expert Captain R.K. Sharma emphasized the need for stringent regulations and enhanced monitoring of naval and civilian vessel activities in areas with heavy traffic. “This tragic event underscores the importance of coordination and clear communication between different parties operating in these waters,” he said.
Mumbai’s maritime community is no stranger to accidents, but Wednesday’s collision has reignited calls for reform and stricter enforcement of safety measures. The ‘Neel Kamal’ ferry service, a popular mode of transport for locals and tourists visiting the iconic Elephanta Caves, has temporarily suspended operations pending a safety review.
Meanwhile, the Indian Navy issued a statement expressing deep regret over the loss of lives and assured full cooperation in the investigation. “Our thoughts are with the families of the deceased and the missing. We are committed to uncovering the reasons behind this incident and ensuring it does not recur,” the statement read.
As rescue operations enter their second day, authorities face mounting pressure to bring clarity and closure to the affected families. The Chief Minister of Maharashtra has called for a thorough inquiry and announced compensation for the victims’ families. “We will leave no stone unturned to ensure justice and improve safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future,” he said in a press briefing.
For now, the focus remains on the search and rescue mission, with teams scouring the waters around the collision site. The efforts are being closely monitored, and updates are being provided to the public regularly. While hopes for a positive outcome dwindle with each passing hour, the resilience of the rescuers and the determination of the families keep the city united in its resolve to overcome this tragedy.
The events of December 18, 2024, will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on Mumbai’s maritime history, serving as a somber reminder of the unpredictability of the sea and the critical importance of vigilance, preparedness, and swift action in times of crisis.
