Tourist boat overturns near Phu Quoc Island
The accident occurred near Phu Quoc Island, one of Vietnam’s most visited coastal destinations, where a boat carrying a group of Indian tourists capsized under circumstances that are still being investigated.
The Indian Embassy in Hanoi confirmed the incident through a statement on social media, describing it as a tragic accident involving several Indian nationals.
Initial reports indicated that the boat was carrying 32 Indian tourists at the time of the mishap.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the precise cause of the capsize, and officials are continuing efforts to establish the sequence of events that led to the accident.
At least 15 feared dead
Preliminary information suggests that 15 people have lost their lives, although officials have cautioned that the death toll could change as rescue operations continue.
Several passengers are feared to have drowned, with search teams continuing efforts to locate those who remain missing.
Vietnamese emergency responders, including local marine rescue units, were immediately deployed to the area after the accident was reported.
The search operation remained underway as authorities combed surrounding waters for survivors and attempted to account for everyone who had been aboard the vessel.
Officials said the final casualty figures would only be confirmed after rescue teams completed their operations.
Indian Embassy monitoring the situation
The Indian Embassy in Hanoi said it was in constant contact with Vietnamese authorities to gather verified information about the incident.
In its official statement, the Embassy noted that the exact details of the accident were still being ascertained because rescue efforts were ongoing.
Diplomatic officials are coordinating with local agencies to identify the victims, assist survivors and facilitate communication with their families in India.
The Embassy assured that it would continue to monitor developments closely and provide all necessary support to Indian nationals affected by the tragedy.
Emergency helplines activated
To assist relatives seeking information, the Indian Embassy and the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City established dedicated control rooms shortly after the incident.
Officials said the emergency centres had been created to respond to queries, coordinate assistance and provide updates to families of those believed to have been on board.
The Embassy urged concerned relatives to contact the designated helpline numbers for verified information rather than rely on unconfirmed reports circulating on social media.
Consular officials are expected to assist with identification procedures, medical support for survivors and documentation required for any further arrangements.
Rescue efforts continue
Vietnamese authorities have prioritised rescue and recovery operations in the waters surrounding Phu Quoc Island.
Emergency personnel are searching the area for missing passengers while simultaneously investigating the circumstances that caused the vessel to overturn.
Weather conditions, the condition of the boat and other operational factors are expected to form part of the official inquiry once immediate rescue efforts conclude.
Authorities have not yet released details regarding the boat operator, crew members or whether adverse weather contributed to the accident.
Investigation underway
As rescue operations continue, investigators are expected to examine multiple aspects of the incident, including the vessel's seaworthiness, passenger safety measures and compliance with maritime regulations.
Officials have so far refrained from speculating on the cause of the accident until all available evidence has been assessed.
The Indian government is also likely to remain engaged with Vietnamese authorities throughout the investigation to ensure affected families receive timely information and necessary assistance.
The tragedy has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a holiday for dozens of Indian tourists, with families now awaiting confirmation about the fate of their loved ones as rescue teams continue their search.
