Vietnam boat tragedy: 15 dead as vessel carrying Indian tourists’ overturns; AP govt extends support
At least 15 people, including Indian tourists, were killed after a tourist boat capsized near an island off Vietnam's Phu Quoc on Saturday, according to local media reports.
New Delhi: At least 15 people, including Indian tourists, were killed after a tourist boat capsized near an island off Vietnam’s Phu Quoc on Saturday, according to local media reports.
The boat was carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members from Hon May Rut to An Thoi Port when it overturned about 400 metres off Hon May Rut Ngoai, Vietnamese news portal VN Express International reported.
The accident threw all passengers and crew into the sea, triggering an immediate rescue operation.
Nearby tourist boats rushed to the spot after noticing the overturned vessel. One of the rescue boat operators told VN Express International that his vessel reached the site within about five minutes. However, rescue efforts were hampered as several passengers were reportedly trapped inside the capsized boat.
Authorities launched search and rescue operations to locate survivors and recover those missing. The exact cause of the accident is yet to be officially confirmed, and an investigation has been initiated by Vietnamese authorities.
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh took cognizance of the incident and directed officials to extend all possible assistance to the affected Indian tourists and their families.
Officials are coordinating with the Indian authorities and the Indian mission in Vietnam to provide necessary support and monitor the rescue and relief efforts.
Further details regarding the identities of the victims and the condition of the survivors are awaited.
