Vietnam Speedboat Accident – Bodies of 15 Indian Tourists to Reach Mumbai Today
Vietnam Speedboat Accident – The mortal remains of 15 Indian tourists who lost their lives in a tragic speedboat accident near Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island are scheduled to arrive in Mumbai on Monday, marking the final stage of an extensive repatriation effort coordinated by Indian and Vietnamese authorities.
The Indian Embassy in Hanoi confirmed that the victims’ bodies will be transported from Ho Chi Minh City to Mumbai on Vietnam Airlines flight VN979. According to the embassy, the aircraft is set to leave Ho Chi Minh City at 6:00 pm local time and is expected to land at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai at 9:35 pm IST.
State Authorities Asked to Assist Families
The embassy stated that the governments of the concerned states have already been informed and requested to make arrangements for transporting the mortal remains from Mumbai to the victims’ respective hometowns. Officials are expected to coordinate with the bereaved families to ensure the process is carried out smoothly and with dignity.
Among those who died in the accident, ten were residents of Tamil Nadu, three belonged to Andhra Pradesh, and two were from Kerala. The victims also included two women. The Indian diplomatic mission in Vietnam expressed its deepest condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and said it stands in solidarity with them during this difficult period.
Accident Took Place During Return Journey
The fatal incident occurred on Friday when a speedboat carrying 32 Indian tourists along with four Vietnamese crew members overturned in the sea while returning from an island excursion. The accident happened around 400 metres from Hon May Rut Ngoai Island, located near the popular tourist destination of Phu Quoc.
Rescue teams launched an immediate operation following the incident. While 15 tourists lost their lives, 16 others were rescued and later returned to India after receiving medical treatment. One passenger continues to remain in critical condition and is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Phu Quoc.
Investigation Into the Cause Continues
Vietnamese authorities have begun a formal investigation to determine what caused the speedboat to capsize. As part of the inquiry, local officials are examining the circumstances surrounding the voyage, including operational and safety aspects.
According to reports from local media, the operator of the speedboat was taken into custody on Sunday as investigators continue gathering evidence. Authorities have not yet announced the final findings or confirmed the exact reason behind the accident.
Popular Tourist Destination Witnesses Rare Tragedy
Phu Quoc, the largest island in Vietnam, attracts thousands of international visitors every year. The island is widely known for its scenic coastline, white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and island-hopping activities that make it one of the country’s leading tourism destinations.
The incident has raised concerns about maritime safety for tourist excursions in the region. As investigations move forward, both Indian and Vietnamese authorities are continuing to extend support to the victims’ families while ensuring the remaining injured passengers receive appropriate medical care.