Rescue Efforts Underway After Ferry Sinks Near Bali
GILIMANUK, Indonesia — A tragic maritime incident occurred near Bali on Wednesday night when a ferry sank, leading to the loss of six lives. As of Thursday, rescuers are actively searching for 29 passengers still missing.
Among the latest found were a 3-year-old boy and his mother, with their bodies recovered by afternoon. The local authorities have confirmed that six fatalities have been identified, and their remains are being returned to families in Banyuwangi.
The ferry, known as KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya, went down shortly after departing from Ketapang port in East Java. The journey to Gilimanuk port was only about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles). Mohammad Syafii, the head of Indonesia’s National Search and Rescue Agency, reported that 30 individuals, including both passengers and crew, have been rescued from the ferry’s total of 53 people.
The search area has been extensive, involving 15 boats and a helicopter, with support from local fishermen. Authorities initially concentrated their efforts in the northern region of the travel lane, but shifting water currents resulted in victims being found further south.
“It’s possible that there are still individuals trapped inside, as the ferry is fully submerged,” stated Nanang Sigit, Surabaya’s Search and Rescue chief. The focus, for now, is on searching the water’s surface.
Challenging weather conditions complicated rescue operations throughout the night, with waves reaching heights of 2 meters (approximately 6.5 feet). The Indonesian Meteorology Agency later forecasted that conditions could worsen, with waves rising to 2.5 meters (about 8.2 feet) and strong winds expected.
An officer at the port described witnessing the ferry’s distress. “We couldn’t establish immediate radio contact,” Sigit explained, noting that by the time communication was regained, the vessel was already tilting uncontrollably.
Authorities and family members have been deeply affected by the incident. Many rescued were reportedly unconscious after hours spent adrift in rough waters. Survivors are being treated at local hospitals while family members anxiously gathered at the port, seeking details about their loved ones.
An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the ferry’s sinking. Preliminary reports from survivors mention a potential leak in the engine room, as the ferry was carrying multiple vehicles, including large trucks.
Ferry accidents are not uncommon in Indonesia, a nation made up of over 17,000 islands where ferries are a vital form of transportation. Sadly, lapses in safety regulations continue to pose risks for those relying on this mode of travel.
