The remains of 15 Indian tourists who lost their lives in a speedboat accident off Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam will be repatriated to India later today, as confirmed by the Indian Embassy in Hanoi. The bodies are scheduled to be flown from Ho Chi Minh City to Mumbai, facilitating their return to the families in India.

According to the embassy, the remains will be transported on Vietnam Airlines flight VN979. This flight is set to depart at 6 pm local time and is expected to reach Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai at 9:35 pm IST.

The respective state governments have been alerted and have been requested to coordinate with the bereaved families for the onward transport of the deceased to their final destinations. The tragic incident has prompted a significant response from Indian authorities, demonstrating their commitment to assist those affected.

Details of the Accident

The tragic event occurred on Friday, during which a speedboat carrying 32 Indian tourists and four local crew members capsized near Hon May Rut Ngoai, located off Phu Quoc Island. While 15 individuals were confirmed dead, 16 others were rescued and have since returned to India after receiving necessary medical treatment. One survivor reportedly remains in critical condition at a hospital in Phu Quoc.

The Indian nationals were reportedly returning from visiting another island at the time of the accident. The exact cause of the capsizing is still under investigation by the Vietnamese authorities, who have ordered a thorough inquiry into the incident.

Local media reports indicate that the operator of the speedboat was detained by authorities on Sunday as part of the investigation process, which is aimed at uncovering the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Victims’ Details and Embassy Response

Among the 15 deceased, ten were from Tamil Nadu, three from Andhra Pradesh, and two from Kerala. Notably, two of the victims were women. The Indian Embassy in Hanoi and the Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City have extended their condolences and expressed their sympathy to the families affected by this tragedy.

Phu Quoc, known as Vietnam’s largest island, has long been a prominent tourist destination, famed for its scenic white-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and various island-hopping excursions. Nonetheless, this incident has highlighted the inherent risks of maritime travel in the region.

The embassy officials have reiterated their commitment to providing assistance to the families of the victims, both through logistical support in repatriating the remains and emotional support during this difficult time. Efforts are ongoing to ensure the swift return of the deceased to their loved ones in India.

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