Foreign Expert Condemns Ignored Warnings
Foreign expert Waeil Awwad offered heartfelt condolences to the victims and families of the Vietnam boat-capsize tragedy that claimed 15 Indian tourists. Speaking to ANI, Awwad expressed disbelief that people ventured into the sea despite clear warnings of a storm in the region. He noted that China had evacuated over 2 million people, and Indonesia and other countries were also affected. Awwad said, "This is a very painful tragedy that happened in the sea, especially at the time when there is a warning that there is a storm that has been happening in the region. I don't understand how these people can go into the sea. There was a warning not to go. Heartfelt condolences to the family who lost their loved one. I believe this is a big tragedy for those people who wanted to celebrate."
Survivor Recounts Seconds of Terror
An Indian survivor, Nirmal Kumar, described the horrifying moments when the tourist boat capsized within seconds due to a sudden storm. The speedboat was carrying 36 people, including 32 Indian tourists, off the coast of Vietnam's Phu Quoc Island. Kumar said, "When we were moving from one island to the next island, a sudden storm came, suddenly within a second, the boat was going upside down. We were on the front side and came out by jumping into the sea. Those who were inside got trapped, and since the boat was upside down, they were unable to come outside the boat." He added that the boat had 32 passengers but a total of 105 people on board, possibly including crew and other staff.
Rescue Response and Medical Gaps
Kumar praised the swift response of rescue teams but criticized the medical facilities on the nearby island, stating they should have been better to save more lives. The Indian Embassy in Vietnam confirmed that all 15 killed were Indian tourists. The tragedy has raised questions about safety protocols and the need for better medical infrastructure in tourist areas.
