Boat Capsize Near Phu Quoc Island Claims 15 Lives, Including Indian Tourists
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief on Saturday over the loss of lives in a boat capsize incident near Vietnam's Phu Quoc Island, which involved Indian tourists. In a post on X, he offered sincere condolences to the bereaved families and assured that the Indian Embassy and Consulate were providing all possible assistance to those affected.
"Extremely saddened to learn about the tragic news of a boat accident involving Indian nationals near Phu Quoc, Vietnam. My sincere condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. My prayers for the early recovery of the injured survivors. Our Embassy and Consulate are providing all possible assistance. Our officials are also in close contact with the Vietnamese authorities," PM Modi posted on X.
Details of the Accident: Speedboat Overturns Near Island
According to Vietnamese newspaper VN Express, at least 15 people, including Indian tourists, were killed after a speedboat carrying 36 people capsized near Phu Quoc Island on Saturday. The speedboat, operated by Ocean Pear Island Company, was ferrying tourists from Hon May Rut Islet to An Thoi Port, approximately 25 kilometres from Phu Quoc Airport. The boat overturned in the afternoon local time, throwing all passengers into the sea.
By late afternoon, rescuers had brought all 36 passengers ashore. Twenty-one people survived, while 15 others—comprising two women and 13 men—were confirmed dead, VN Express reported.
Embassy Confirms 32 Indian Tourists on Board
The Embassy of India in Vietnam confirmed that, as per information received from official sources, 32 Indian tourists were on board the boat that capsized near Phu Quoc Island. "As per information received from official sources, the following 32 Indian tourists were onboard the boat which capsized near Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam a few hours ago," the Embassy said in a post on X.
In addition to the 32 Indians, there were three crew members and one flight attendant onboard the boat. The Indian Embassy is in close coordination with Vietnamese authorities to facilitate rescue and relief operations.
Impact and Response
The tragic incident has highlighted the risks associated with tourist boat operations in the region. The Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone authorities are investigating the cause of the capsize. The Indian government has assured full support to the affected families, with embassy officials working on the ground to assist survivors and coordinate with local agencies.
