A tourist speedboat carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members capsized near Phu Quoc Island in southern Vietnam on 11 July, killing 15 Indian nationals in one of the deadliest accidents involving Indian tourists abroad this year.
According to Vietnamese authorities, the boat overturned about 400-500 metres from shore while returning from Hon May Rut Ngoai Island to An Thoi Port. Rescue teams, assisted by nearby boats, saved 21 people, while the bodies of all 15 victims were recovered. Rough sea conditions reportedly hampered rescue efforts.
Of the 15 victims:
- 10 were from Tamil Nadu.
- 3 were from Andhra Pradesh.
- The remaining victims were from other Indian states.
The Indian Embassy in Vietnam is coordinating with Vietnamese authorities to assist survivors and arrange the repatriation of the victims bodies. Vietnam’s Prime Minister has ordered an investigation into the cause of the accident and a review of maritime safety measures.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay directed state officials to work with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy to ensure the victims remains are brought home and that affected families receive all necessary assistance.
