Thu Dec 19 19:12:51 UTC 2024: ## Ferry Disaster Claims Life of Strong Swimmer; Family Demands Answers
**Mumbai, India** – The death toll from Wednesday’s ferry capsize off the Mumbai coast has risen, with the recovery of the body of Hansaraam Bhati, 43, on Thursday evening. Bhati, a skilled swimmer who was wearing a lifejacket, was among 115 passengers aboard the ill-fated *Neel Kamal* ferry when it capsized near Karanja after a collision with a Navy speedboat undergoing engine trials.
Bhati’s family is struggling to comprehend his death. His brother, Jogaram, noted that Bhati’s 14-year-old son, Tarun, who survived, confirmed his father was wearing a life jacket. A close family friend, Ranjeet Parmar, echoed the disbelief, highlighting Bhati’s strong swimming abilities. Parmar speculates that Bhati’s lifejacket may have become entangled in the wreckage, as his body was found beneath the capsized ferry.
Bhati, who ran a small imitation jewellery workshop, was on the ferry with his wife Santosh and son, accompanying relatives on a tour to Elephanta Island. Santosh and Tarun survived the incident, along with the relatives. At least 14 people perished in the accident, while approximately 100 others were rescued.
The family is demanding government compensation, highlighting Bhati’s role as the sole breadwinner. While police sources suggest a possible engine malfunction on the Navy speedboat as a cause for the accident, the family, along with Jogaram, directly blames the Navy. The investigation into the exact cause of the accident continues.
First Piper 