Off the coast of Mumbai, a naval vessel’s driver lost control during engine tests, resulting in a fatal accident with a ferry called Neel Kamal. At least 14 people were killed in this incident, which happened on December 18, 2024, and involved both ferry passengers and naval troops.
The naval speedboat, which at the time was testing its engines, attacked the Neel Kamal while it was carrying more than 100 passengers from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island. The ferry left around 3:15 PM, and the crash occurred at approximately 4 PM. Video footage and eyewitness reports showed that the navy vessel was moving quickly and did not change direction prior to impact.
Nearby vessels immediately began rescue operations, including a pilot boat from Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPT), which was able to recover 56 people. The Coast Guard and Indian Navy also took part in the operation, sending out many helicopters and rescue craft.
Both the Indian Navy and local authorities launched independent investigations after the event. According to preliminary findings, the loss of control may have been caused in part by an engine fault in the navy vessel. A board of inquiry has been set up to look into the crash’s circumstances in more detail.
For the families of those killed in the disaster, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis approved an exgratia payout of ₹5 lakh. Additionally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered the families of the victims financial assistance from the PM relief fund.
Concerns about safety procedures in marine operations, particularly with relation to naval boats performing trials close to populated areas, have been highlighted by this unfortunate incident.
