A tourist boat in Vietnam's picturesque Ha Long Bay overturned due to inclement weather on Saturday, claiming at least 34 lives, as rescue workers search for additional survivors amidst tragic scenes of loss and devastation.
Tragedy Strikes as Tourist Boat Capsizes in Vietnam's Ha Long Bay
Tragedy Strikes as Tourist Boat Capsizes in Vietnam's Ha Long Bay
At least 34 confirmed dead after a sightseeing boat capsizes during a sudden storm; efforts continue to locate more survivors.
On Saturday, a tragic incident unfolded in Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay, causing the capsizing of a tourist boat, resulting in at least 34 confirmed fatalities according to reports from state media. The boat, which was partaking in a sightseeing tour, was carrying 48 passengers and five crew members when it encountered a sudden and violent thunderstorm that led to turbulent waters.
The deceased included at least eight children, with first responders recovering 34 bodies from the water. Reports indicate that the rescue teams succeeded in saving at least 10 individuals, among them a young boy who endured several hours in the sea before being rescued. Bui Cong Hoan, leader of the Ha Long Tourist Boat Association, described the incident as the most catastrophic in the region within the last quarter-century.
All passengers and crew were Vietnamese nationals. Disturbingly, accounts revealed that one family, which included two parents and two children, suffered the loss of all but the mother. The boat was engaged in a tour of the picturesque Dau Go and other limestone formations when the weather turned perilous.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has mobilized civil defense workers along with the Defense and Public Security Ministries to expedite search and rescue operations, as efforts continued into the night. The boat is reported to be one among hundreds that provide daily tours in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed area.
Previous maritime accidents have marred Vietnam’s tourism reputation, including a fatal incident last year in which 17 tourists lost their lives in a similar capsizing, and a 2009 ferry disaster that claimed 40 lives due to overloading.
As this tragedy unfolds, the nation mourns, reflecting on the need for improved maritime safety measures to prevent such avoidable loss in the future.
