CISF Patrol Boat ‘Shera 1’ Rescues Indian Navy Crew
A tragic incident unfolded near Mumbai’s coast on Wednesday afternoon when an Indian Navy speedboat collided with the Neelkamal ferry, causing it to capsize near Butcher Island. The ferry was en route from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, carrying over 100 passengers.
CISF Patrol Boat Shera 1’s Heroic Rescue
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) patrol boat, Shera 1, played a pivotal role in the rescue operations. Upon receiving an SOS call, the crew, including Constables Amol Maruti Sawant, Vikas Ghosh, and Arun Singh, swiftly navigated to the accident site. Despite their boat’s capacity of 15, they managed to rescue approximately 30 passengers initially, prioritizing children and administering CPR to the unconscious.
Casualties and Ongoing Investigations
The collision resulted in the tragic loss of 13 lives, including two children, a Navy personnel, and two original equipment manufacturers. The Defence PRO confirmed that the naval craft was undergoing engine trials when the operator lost control, leading to the collision. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced financial assistance for the families of the deceased and stated that both the state police and the Navy would conduct thorough investigations into the incident.
Eyewitness Accounts and Viral Footage
Eyewitnesses reported scenes of panic as passengers were thrown into the sea. A video captured by a passenger aboard the Neelkamal showed the naval craft losing control and crashing directly into the ferry, which quickly went viral, prompting a massive rescue operation involving the Indian Navy, Mumbai police, Indian Coast Guard, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), and the CISF.
Broader Implications and Safety Concerns
This incident raises significant concerns about safety protocols during naval trials, especially in proximity to civilian vessels. The prompt response by rescue teams, particularly the CISF’s Shera 1, undoubtedly saved many lives. However, the tragedy underscores the need for stringent safety measures to prevent such accidents in the future.
As investigations continue, authorities aim to determine the exact cause of the malfunction and implement measures to enhance maritime safety, ensuring the well-being of both civilians and military personnel in shared waters.
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