Ferry starts sinking near Gateway of India, passengers being rescued

A ferry named Neelkamal capsized near Uran and Karanja, while traveling from Mumbai’s Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, at around 4 pm on Wednesday. The ferry, which was carrying approximately 30 to 35 passengers, started sinking during the journey. Initial reports suggest the passengers were on a routine trip to the island, a popular tourist destination. Authorities are still verifying the exact number of passengers on board.

Rescue operations are currently ongoing, involving multiple agencies, including the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), and Yellow Gate Police Station. Local fishing boats have also been deployed to assist in the operation. Authorities were seen evacuating passengers, some of whom were wearing life jackets, and transferring them to other vessels as the ferry continued to sink.

There have been no confirmed reports of casualties as of now. The Coast Guard, which has been playing a major role in the rescue effort, has successfully rescued most of the passengers. However, the exact number of survivors is still being determined as the operation continues.

The Neelkamal ferry is part of the regular passenger service between the Gateway of India and Elephanta Island. The incident took place closer to the island, and rescue teams are working to ensure all passengers are accounted for and safely returned to shore. The cause of the capsizing is currently under investigation by the relevant authorities.

Ferry starts sinking near Gateway of India, passengers being rescuedhttps://t.co/I7qkvKyfxG via @taazatv#Ferry #Accident #Mumbai #RescueOperation #GatewayOfIndia #ElephantaIsland #CoastGuard #IndianNavy #Marine #Safety #Mumbai #Boat pic.twitter.com/hzDmmPEwWC

— Taaza TV (@taazatv) December 18, 2024