Delhi, December 20, 2024: The driver of a Navy speedboat that collided with a ferry off the Mumbai coast was allegedly “showing off,” according to a survivor whose aunt is among the 14 fatalities from the incident on Wednesday afternoon.
The Navy craft, which was undergoing engine trials, lost control and collided with the passenger ferry Neel Kamal near Mumbai’s Karanja at around 4 PM. The ferry was transporting passengers from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, a popular tourist destination.
Gaurav Gupta, a vegetable vendor from Nalasopara in Palghar district, was aboard the ill-fated ferry with his aunt and relatives, who had come to Mumbai to attend his wedding.
“I met my aunt after many years. She came for my wedding, and I took her for sightseeing and a ferry ride. I had no idea it would be the last day of her life,” Gupta recounted.
Survivor Disputes Navy’s Claims
Countering the Navy’s assertion of “engine failure” causing the collision, Gupta alleged the speedboat’s driver was performing stunts and “showing off.” Many passengers, including Gupta, were recording videos of the speedboat as it zig-zagged through the waters.
“It felt like a display,” Gupta remarked.
As the ferry headed toward Elephanta Island, Gupta noted the speedboat, carrying 5 to 6 people, approached them. “The driver was in a playful mood, zig-zagging. Suddenly, he turned the boat towards us, seemingly attempting a narrow pass, but the stunt ended in tragedy,” Gupta said.
At the time of the collision, many passengers on the ferry reportedly lacked life jackets.
Ferry Began to Sink
Initially unaware of the situation’s severity, Gupta recalled, “One occupant from the speedboat was thrown onto our ferry. We thought our ferry was safe and undamaged. But soon, it began to sink.”
He added that the speedboat passengers appeared calm and relaxed before the collision, suggesting no mechanical issues.
The tragedy has left survivors and their families grappling with the devastating aftermath, with calls for accountability growing.
Summary: A survivor of the Mumbai boat tragedy disputes engine failure claims, alleging the Navy boat driver was “showing off,” leading to the fatal incident.