Mumbai Ferry Tragedy: Heroes Amid Chaos as CISF Rescues Dozens

Gateway of India, Mumbai:  In a heart-stopping rescue operation following the tragic Mumbai ferry accident, CISF personnel proved to be the lifeline for terrified passengers. Fourteen people tragically lost their lives when an Indian Navy boat collided with the tourist ferry, Neel Kamal, en route to Elephanta Island from the Gateway of India on the afternoon of December 18.

As the ferry began sinking, panic spread among the passengers. Parents, in a desperate bid to save their children, considered tossing them into the churning sea. However, CISF jawan Amol Savant, along with his colleagues, was the first to respond. Having received the emergency call during their routine patrol, Savant and his team rushed to the scene, navigating through rough waters to reach the sinking ferry.

Upon arrival, Savant and his team immediately took control of the chaotic situation, rescuing around 50-60 people, with special focus on children, some of whom were dangling precariously from the sinking vessel. "I asked parents to stay calm and not to throw their children into the sea. We took hold of them and brought them to safety," Savant recalled.

Sub Inspector Kheioka Sema and other team members joined the efforts, saving additional passengers from the water and performing life-saving CPR on 10–12 victims. Many passengers, including a foreign couple, assisted in the rescue, working tirelessly with the CISF to provide urgent medical help.

The professionalism and dedication of the CISF commandos were pivotal in saving lives, showcasing their extensive marine training and readiness to handle such critical incidents. Their swift actions, coordinated response, and calming influence amid panic are a testament to their unwavering commitment to public safety.