The Indonesian ferry tragedy occurred late Wednesday as it transported passengers between islands, prompting urgent search operations.
Ferry Disaster off Bali Leaves Four Dead, Dozens Missing
Ferry Disaster off Bali Leaves Four Dead, Dozens Missing
A tragic ferry sinking near Bali has claimed at least four lives, with many more passengers unaccounted for.
At least four individuals have lost their lives following the sinking of a ferry off the coast of Bali, Indonesia, with many others reported missing. The vessel, carrying 53 passengers and 12 crew members, sank around 11:20 PM local time (15:30 GMT) while en route from Banyuwangi on Java's eastern shore to Bali, according to the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) in Surabaya.
In the early hours of Thursday, four survivors were discovered on a lifeboat, igniting hope amid the ongoing search for additional survivors. Eyewitness reports and images released by Antara news agency depicted ambulances waiting by the roadside as families gathered for news about their loved ones.
Current investigations are underway to determine the accident's cause. Early reports suggest that the ferry operator had reported engine issues shortly before the sinking incident. This route between Java and Bali is frequently traveled by locals and tourists alike.
Indonesia, comprising approximately 17,000 islands, is no stranger to maritime accidents, attributed largely to inconsistent enforcement of safety regulations. A previous incident in March resulted in the death of an Australian woman whose boat capsized off Bali with 16 passengers.
As rescue operations continue in the Bali strait, the tragic loss highlights the pressing need for enhanced safety protocols in Indonesia’s maritime travel sector.
