At least four individuals have tragically lost their lives, and numerous others remain unaccounted for after a ferry capsized off the coast of Bali, Indonesia. According to rescuers, the vessel was carrying 53 passengers and 12 crew members when it sank around 23:20 local time (15:35 GMT) on Wednesday, during its journey from Banyuwangi on Java’s eastern shore to Bali.
Rescue operations underway
The National Search and Rescue Agency’s Surabaya office confirmed that twenty-nine survivors have been successfully rescued, with ongoing efforts to locate those missing. Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the incident, with the ferry operator stating that the boat had reported engine issues shortly before it went under.
Many of the rescued individuals hail from the coastal town of Banyuwangi, while others are from more inland regions of Java, as per the information released by local authorities. In the wake of this disaster, President Prabowo Subianto has called for an immediate emergency response despite being on an official visit to Saudi Arabia.
Context of maritime safety in Indonesia
The route taken by the ferry is frequently used by residents traveling between the islands of Java and Bali. Images shared by the Antara news agency depict ambulances positioned on standby, alongside anxious residents awaiting news of their loved ones.
Marine accidents are a common occurrence in Indonesia, a nation comprising approximately 17,000 islands, where lapses in the enforcement of safety regulations pose significant risks. Earlier this year, an Australian woman tragically died when a boat carrying 16 people capsized off Bali, highlighting the ongoing concerns regarding maritime safety in the region.
“The vessel had reported engine trouble shortly before it sank,” said the ferry operator.