Indian Embassy coordinates with Vietnamese authorities as rescue efforts continue and survivors receive treatment
At least 15 Indian tourists were killed after a tourist speedboat carrying 32 Indian nationals capsized off Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island on Saturday, prompting a major rescue operation and diplomatic assistance from the Indian Embassy.
The accident occurred about 400 metres off Hon May Rut Ngoai Island, near An Thoi Port, while the group was returning from a sightseeing trip. According to Vietnamese authorities, the vessel was carrying 36 people, including 32 Indian tourists, three crew members and one attendant. Rough sea conditions and strong waves are believed to have contributed to the tragedy, although the exact cause remains under investigation.
Rescue teams, assisted by nearby boats, border guards, naval personnel and the coast guard, managed to save 21 people. Survivors were taken to local hospitals for treatment. Reports indicated that many of those who died became trapped inside the overturned boat before rescuers could reach them.
The Indian Embassy in Hanoi said it is in close contact with Vietnamese authorities and is closely monitoring the situation. Emergency response centres have been established in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to assist affected families, coordinate rescue efforts and provide consular support
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over the loss of lives, describing the incident as deeply saddening. He said the Government of India was extending all possible assistance through the Indian mission in Vietnam and conveyed sympathies to the families of those who died while wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.
Vietnamese authorities have launched an investigation into the accident as search operations continue to verify whether any passengers remain unaccounted for. The incident is among the deadliest involving Indian tourists in Vietnam and has raised fresh concerns over safety measures for recreational boating in the country’s popular island destinations.
