15 Indian Tourists Die in Vietnam Boat Accident Near Phu Quoc

The boat capsized and the reason behind the mishap was not clear. Vietnam authorities were probing the accident and suspects sea rough and potential mechanical issues. The cause behind the incident is being investigated.

Rescue Efforts Underway At Boat Accident Site 

During the search and rescue operations that started immediately, images show rescuers pulling bodies out of the water. Nearby boats started to pick up passengers immediately when the news broke out. VN Express also cited eyewitnesses as saying that local boats quickly went to the scene to pull passengers out before the arrival of the Vietnam Border Guards, Navy, and Coast Guard.

Video broadcast by Vietnam shows large waves and wind buffeting the water as rescue workers searched for passengers. Life preservers were tossed into the sea and jet skis ferried survivors back to shore where medical teams and the public treated the injured.

Indian Embassy Sets Up Control Rooms

The Indian Embassy in Vietnam stated it would establish control rooms to handle the ongoing search and rescue operation. These rooms would be set up at the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City and the embassy in Hanoi.

"In a tragic incident, a boat carrying several Indian tourists has capsized near Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam a few hours ago. Exact details of the incident are being ascertained as search and rescue operations by local authorities are ongoing," the embassy said on social media platform X.

It added, "In order to provide information and assistance to affected families, a Control Room at the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City has been set up which can be reached at : +84 36 281 7930, +84 91 552 37 14 and +84 33 452 0414. A Control room has been established in Hanoi and can be reached at +84 91 308 9165. We are available for any assistance and queries.”

PM Modi Offers Condolences And Support

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences over the accident and said that the Indian Embassy and Consulate in Vietnam were in close touch with Vietnamese authorities and were providing all possible assistance.

“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,” he said.

Lava Extends Support To Affected Families

The tourists had been on an incentive trip organised by handset maker Lava. 

Lava said, "We are deeply saddened to learn about the tragic incident in Vietnam involving our channel partners and team members. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this heartbreaking incident.”

It added, "We are in constant touch with the Embassy of India in Vietnam and the local authorities, and are closely monitoring the situation. Our immediate priority is to extend all possible support to those affected and their families. Our teams in both India and Vietnam are in regular contact with the families and are providing all possible assistance.”