Search Operation Ongoing for Missing Seven-Year-Old Boy Following Navy Craft and Ferry Collision Off Mumbai

A search operation is underway to find a seven-year-old boy missing after a Navy craft collided with a ferry near Mumbai's coast. The incident occurred two days ago, and naval boats are actively involved in the search. An official confirmed that the search and rescue efforts will continue for at least another 72 hours, as the boy's body has not yet been recovered.

The collision resulted in the death of a 43-year-old man, raising the total fatalities from the December 18 accident to 14. A probe has been initiated by the Navy into this tragic event, one of the deadliest in the city's harbour area. The search operation involves a naval helicopter and boats from both the Navy and Coast Guard, aiming to locate any remaining missing passengers.

Search and Rescue Efforts Continue

Out of 113 individuals aboard both vessels, 14 lost their lives while 98 were rescued, including two who sustained injuries. The Navy craft had six people on board, with only two surviving the crash. The accident happened when the Navy craft, undergoing engine trials, lost control and collided with the passenger ferry Neel Kamal.

The ferry was carrying over 100 passengers from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, a popular tourist destination known for its ancient caves. According to documents from the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), the ferry was permitted to carry 84 passengers and six crew members but was overloaded at the time of the accident.

Legal Actions and Investigations

A case has been filed against the driver of the Navy craft at Colaba police station. The FIR includes sections from Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) related to causing death by negligence, endangering personal safety or life, rash or negligent navigation of a vessel, and acts causing wrongful loss or damage.

The damaged passenger ferry has been moved to Bhaucha Dhakka, a wharf near Dockyard Road in south Mumbai. Meanwhile, the Navy retains custody of their craft involved in the collision. Police will request access to it as needed for their investigation into this tragic incident.

The ongoing search highlights efforts to find all missing persons and understand how this tragedy unfolded. Authorities are committed to uncovering details surrounding this unfortunate event while ensuring accountability for those responsible.