In a tragic incident near Butcher Island, off the coast of Mumbai, a Navy boat collided with the passenger vessel ‘Neelkamal’ at approximately 3:55 PM on December 17, 2024. As of 7:30 PM, 101 people have been rescued safely, while 13 fatalities have been confirmed, including 10 civilians and 3 Navy personnel.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
The rescue operation, involving 11 craft and 4 helicopters, was jointly conducted by the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Mumbai Police. Two critically injured individuals are receiving treatment at the Navy hospital.
Authorities have announced that the final count of missing persons will be available by tomorrow morning, as rescue efforts continue to ensure no one is left unaccounted for.
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Support for Bereaved Families
The Chief Minister’s Relief Fund has announced an ex gratia payment of Rs. 5 lakhs for the families of the deceased. The government and armed forces have extended their condolences to the bereaved families.
Investigation Underway
The incident is currently under investigation by both the police and the Navy, to ascertain the cause of the collision and prevent such occurrences in the future.
This unfortunate event highlights the critical need for safety measures and thorough reviews of maritime operations. The nation mourns the loss of lives and stands united in support of the affected families.
