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IN PHOTOS: How three CISF heroes pulled off a life-saving rescue after Elephanta ferry capsized

A tragic incident occurred when the Neelkamal ferry, en route to Elephanta Caves, capsized near Butcher Island after colliding with an Indian Navy speedboat, resulting in the deaths of 13 people, including two children. The collision occurred when the Indian Navy speedboat, undergoing engine trials, lost control due to a throttle issue and crashed into the ferry carrying over 100 passengers. (Pics/Shadab Khan)

Updated On: 2024-12-19 10:48 AM IST

Compiled by : Anisha Shrivastava

(Pics/Shadab Khan)
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) patrol boat, "Shera 1," was in the vicinity and played a vital role in rescuing 35 passengers within minutes of the incident. A total of 72 passengers were rescued with the help of Shera 1 and other rescue agencies, including the Indian Navy, the Coast Guard, and Marine Police.
Thirteen people lost their lives in the accident, including a naval officer and two original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) who were aboard the Navy speedboat. The Indian Navy immediately launched search-and-rescue operations, deploying four helicopters, 11 naval craft, and three Marine Police boats to assist in the effort.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed the accident's cause, stating that the throttle problem with the Navy's speedboat led to the collision, and announced financial aid for the families of the deceased. A viral video shot by an eyewitness aboard the Neelkamal captured the naval speedboat losing control and colliding with the ferry, triggering widespread rescue operations.
CISF constables Amol Maruti Sawant, Vikas Ghosh, and Arun Singh responded swiftly to an SOS call and arrived at the scene just 10 minutes after receiving the distress call. Upon reaching the scene, the CISF team found the ferry capsized, with several passengers, including children, in the water. They prioritised saving children, with the first person rescued being a three-year-old.
Despite their patrol boat’s limited capacity, the CISF team managed to take around 30 passengers onboard and administered CPR before transferring them to passing rescue boats. Following their initial rescue efforts, additional support arrived from Navy, Coast Guard, and Mumbai police teams to ensure the safety of the remaining survivors.
 
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