"Extremely saddened": PM Modi condoles loss of lives in Vietnam boat capsize carrying Indian tourists
New Delhi, July 11
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed grief over the loss of lives, including that of Indian tourists, in the boat capsize incident near Vietnam's Phu Quoc Island, extending his sincere condolences to the bereaved families.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said he was "extremely saddened" by the tragic accident and assured that the Indian Embassy and Consulate were providing all possible assistance to those affected.
"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," PM Modi posted on X.
At least 15 people, including Indian tourists, were killed after a speedboat carrying 36 people capsized near Vietnam's Phu Quoc Island on Saturday, according to Vietnamese newspaper VN Express.
According to VN Express, citing authorities in the Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone, the speedboat, operated by Ocean Pear Island Company, was ferrying tourists from Hon May Rut Islet to An Thoi Port, around 25 kilometres from Phu Quoc Airport, when it overturned in the afternoon (local time), throwing all those on board into the sea.
By late afternoon, rescuers had brought all 36 passengers ashore.
21 people survived, while 15 others - comprising two women and 13 men - were confirmed dead, VN Express reported.
The Embassy of India in Vietnam said that, as per information received from official sources, 32 Indian tourists were on board the boat that capsized near Phu Quoc Island.
"As per information received from official sources, the following 32 Indian tourists were onboard the boat which capsized near Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam a few hours ago," the Embassy said in a post on X.
There were three crew members and one flight attendant apart from the 32 Indians onboard the boat.
— ANI
Reader Comments
God bless the departed souls 🙏. 21 survivors is a miracle but 15 lost lives is too high a price. As an Indian traveler, I always research local operators before booking—many tourists don't check safety records. The Indian embassy should have safety guidelines shared with travelers to Vietnam.
This is truly tragic. I visited Phu Quoc last year and took similar boat trips. Conditions can be rough even on calm days. Respect to the Vietnamese authorities for quick rescue efforts. PM Modi's timely response is appreciated but prevention is better than condolence messages—hope this leads to better safety protocols for Indian tourists abroad.
Very saddening. 32 Indians on board is a large group. My prayers for the injured and strength to the families who lost loved ones. One thing I notice—why did it take hours to confirm the Indian nationalities? Our embassy should have a faster response system for such emergencies. Still, grateful for the PM's personal attention.
Om Shanti 🙏. 15 lives lost—double digits is alarming. The fact that there were crew members too adds another layer of tragedy. I hope the Vietnam authorities hold the boat operator accountable if negligence is found. India should also issue travel advisories for tourists heading to Phu Quoc or similar locations.
Awful tragedy. 32 tourists on a single speedboat seems excessive—36 total including crew is a lot for one vessel. Respect to the rescuers who brought all passengers ashore, but the loss of 15 is still devastating. PM Modi's statement shows India cares about its citizens abroad, but stronger consular support during the peak tourist season is needed.