Fatal Speedboat Accident in Vietnam
A tragic incident unfolded in the waters near Hon May Rut Ngoai island in southern Vietnam, where a speedboat carrying Indian tourists capsized, resulting in the loss of 15 lives. The local media, citing regional authorities, reported that the vessel was carrying 32 Indian tourists alongside four crew members when it overturned approximately 400 meters from the island due to adverse sea conditions.
Immediate Rescue Efforts
Several nearby tourist boats quickly responded to the emergency, with rescuers discovering many passengers trapped inside the capsized vessel. According to Vietnam's VnExpress, 21 individuals were successfully rescued, while reports indicate that all the deceased were Indian nationals.
Popular Tourist Destination
Hon May Rut Ngoai, a small island part of the An Thoi Archipelago in the Gulf of Thailand, is a popular destination for tourists engaging in island-hopping tours. Located roughly 10 kilometers south of Phu Quoc, Vietnam's largest island, the area attracts numerous visitors each year.
Investigation into the Incident
Nguyen Tien Hai, a senior Communist Party official in the region, stated that the authorities are still in the process of verifying the exact number of casualties and survivors. He noted that the capsizing may have been caused by heavy winds and high waves. "The top priority is rescue, bringing all victims ashore and focusing all efforts on providing emergency care to those who are still alive," Hai emphasized.
Condolences and Support
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, stating, "I am extremely saddened to learn about the tragic news of a boat accident involving Indian nationals in Vietnam." He extended his condolences to the families of the victims and hoped for the speedy recovery of the injured.
The Indian embassy in Vietnam has described the event as "tragic" and has published the names of the 32 Indian nationals involved in the incident. The embassy has also established telephone hotlines to assist the affected families by providing necessary information and support.
Source: Original Article
