New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed grief over the speedboat accident near Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island that claimed the lives of 15 Indian tourists and left several others injured. He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and assured that the Government of India is extending all possible assistance to those affected.
The accident occurred when a speedboat carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members capsized about 400 metres from shore while travelling from Hon May Rut Island to An Thoi Port amid rough sea conditions. Rescue operations by Vietnamese authorities were launched immediately after the incident.
PM Modi expresses condolences
In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi said he was deeply saddened by the tragic incident involving Indian nationals near Phu Quoc Island.
He extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured survivors.
The Prime Minister also said that the Indian Embassy and Consulate in Vietnam were providing all possible assistance and remained in close contact with Vietnamese authorities handling the rescue and relief efforts.
Boat carrying Indian tourists capsizes
According to Vietnamese authorities, the speedboat overturned while returning from Hon May Rut Island to An Thoi Port.
The vessel was carrying 36 people, including 32 Indian tourists and four crew members, when it capsized in rough seas and strong winds approximately 400 metres from the shoreline.
Rescue teams, assisted by nearby boats and jet skis, managed to save 21 people, while all 15 victims were later recovered. Reports indicated that several passengers were trapped inside the overturned vessel.
Indian mission sets up emergency response
Earlier, the Indian Embassy in Vietnam confirmed the accident and stated that search and rescue operations were under way as authorities worked to establish the exact details of the incident.
The embassy also established emergency control rooms in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to assist affected tourists and their families.
Investigation ordered
Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung has directed authorities to investigate the cause of the accident and review maritime safety measures following the tragedy.
Officials said rough sea conditions prevailed in the area at the time of the incident, although the exact cause of the capsizing will be determined after the investigation is completed.
Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, is among the country’s most popular tourist destinations and has witnessed a steady rise in the number of Indian visitors in recent years.