Thu Dec 19 16:42:07 UTC 2024: ## Mumbai Ferry Disaster: 14 Dead, One Child Missing After Navy Boat Collision
**Mumbai, India** – The death toll from a ferry accident near the Gateway of India in Mumbai has risen to 14, with the recovery of a 43-year-old victim’s body on Thursday. The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon when a Navy speedboat collided with the overloaded ferry en route to Elephanta Island.
Among the deceased are four navy personnel and ten civilians. All 14 bodies have been identified. Rescue teams saved 98 people, including two German and one Canadian citizen, but a seven-year-old child remains missing. The Navy and Coast Guard are conducting an extensive search operation involving helicopters and multiple boats.
Eyewitnesses reported that the Navy speedboat was performing stunts before the collision, with one witness even recording a video. Another witness stated that no life jackets were worn by passengers on the ferry.
The ferry, with a capacity of 90 passengers, was carrying over 100 people – 84 passengers and 6 crew members – at the time of the accident. The Navy speedboat had six personnel aboard, two of whom survived. In total, 113 people were on both vessels.
A police case has been filed against the Navy boat driver at the Colaba police station, charging him with causing death by negligence, endangering lives, and negligent navigation. Nine statements have been recorded.
A new video emerged on Thursday showing the Navy rescuing people from the sinking ferry, including women and children screaming for help. The Navy has stated that the speedboat’s captain lost control during an engine trial.
Prime Minister Modi announced ₹2 lakh in compensation from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for each victim’s family. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis pledged ₹5 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. The ongoing search for the missing child continues.
First Piper 