Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the tragic collision between an Indian Navy speedboat and a ferry off the Mumbai coast. The mishap claimed 13 lives and left 99 rescued on Wednesday.
In a tweet
, he wrote, “Condolences to the bereaved families. I pray that the injured recover soon. Those affected are being assisted by the authorities. An ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh from the PMNRF will be provided to the next of kin of each deceased in the boat mishap in Mumbai. The injured will receive ₹50,000.”
According to an official statement, the Indian Navy craft lost control while undergoing engine trials in Mumbai Harbour due to an engine malfunction. The resulting collision caused the passenger ferry, which was transporting passengers from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, to capsize.
The deceased include a naval officer and two representatives from the original equipment manufacturer aboard the naval craft. An inquiry has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the incident.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed condolences, stating on
social media platform X
, “Deeply saddened by the loss of precious lives in the collision between a passenger ferry and an Indian Navy craft in Mumbai Harbour. Injured personnel, including naval personnel and civilians from both vessels, are receiving urgent medical care.”