Vietnam boat capsizes killing 15 Indian tourists
A boat returning from a tour of an island in southern Vietnam capsized, killing 15 Indian tourists less than half a kilometer from shore as passengers shouted for help, authorities and a witness said.
The speedboat was carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members when it capsized on Saturday afternoon, shortly after leaving Hon May Rut Ngoai Island near Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, authorities said.
Indian Ashish Kumar, who witnessed the accident, told The Associated Press by phone: “The boat had overturned before it had even gone half a kilometer.” “‘Help! Help!’ “We shouted.”
He said nearby boats immediately rushed to the rescue. “But by then it was too late,” he said.
Kumar said emergency medical care was not available on shore when the survivors were brought back.
He said at least some of the passengers were on a tour of companies that make smartphones and other electronic products, organized by their employers.
His three friends were also on the boat. “Two people died, the other was said to be in critical condition,” he said.
Indian smartphone and consumer electronics maker Lava International confirmed that some of its employees and channel partners were among those involved in the accident.
“Our immediate priority is to provide all possible support to those affected and their families,” the statement said.
VN Express news site quoted eyewitnesses as saying some passengers were trapped inside the boat. Footage on Vietnamese television showed rough seas and strong winds as rescuers threw life preservers to people in the water. Jet skis brought survivors back to shore, while people on the beach provided first aid.
Authorities said 21 people were rescued and all those who died were recovered. The injured were taken to hospitals.
Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung ordered an investigation and instructed authorities to hold those responsible accountable. He also asked authorities to review waterway and maritime safety in the area where the accident occurred.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences for the accident and wrote on social media that the Indian Embassy was providing all possible assistance.
Most of those on board are believed to be from the southern Indian states of Telangana and Tamil Nadu.
Authorities in Telangana have set up a control room to coordinate relief and provide information to their families. The Tamil Nadu chief minister wrote on social media that he called on Indian authorities to provide assistance to the victims and ensure that the bodies of those killed are returned as soon as possible.
Phu Quoc, on the Gulf of Thailand, is one of Vietnam’s most popular beach destinations. Hon May Rut island is about 10 km south of Phu Quoc. It is known for its white sandy beaches and clear waters and attracts millions of local and foreign tourists every year.
