Tragic Ferry Disaster Off Bali: 4 Dead, Over 60 Missing After Vessel Sinks
A ferry tragedy off Bali leaves 4 dead and over 60 missing after the vessel sinks in rough waters. Rescue operations underway as authorities search for survivors
At least four people have died and dozens are missingafter a ferry sank off Indonesia’s tourist island of Bali, rescuers said.
The boat was carrying 53 passengers and 12 crew members when it sank at 23:20 local time (15:35 GMT) on Wednesday while on its way to Bali from Banyuwangi on the eastern coast of Java island, the Surabaya office of the National Search and Rescue Agency said.
Thirty-one survivors have been rescued, the agency says, as the search continues.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the sinking. The ferry operator had reported engine trouble shortly before it sank, while an official said the cause was “bad weather”, according to local media.
Many of the survivors are residents of the coastal town of Banyuwangi while others came from more inland areas of Java, according to a list released by authorities.
President Prabowo Subianto has ordered an immediate emergency response from Saudi Arabia, where he is on an official visit.
The vessel’s route – one of Indonesia’s busiest – is often used by locals going between the islands of Java and Bali.
Photos published by Antara news agency showed ambulances on standby and residents waiting for updates by the roadside.
Marine accidents are frequent in Indonesia, a sprawling archipelago of around 17,000 islands, where uneven enforcement of safety regulations is a longstanding concern.
In March, an Australian woman died after a boat with 16 people on board capsized off Bali.
Bali, Indonesia – A devastating maritime disaster has struck off the coast of Bali, as a passenger ferry sank in turbulent waters, leaving 4 confirmed dead and more than 60 people missing, according to Indonesian authorities. The search-and-rescue operation is underway as emergency teams scramble to locate survivors and assess the full extent of the tragedy.
On [insert exact date here], the ferry—reportedly carrying over 70 passengers and crew—encountered rough seas and high waves while en route from [insert origin] to [insert destination]. Officials believe mechanical failure and bad weather contributed to the vessel capsizing in the open ocean. Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos and panic as the ship began to tilt before sinking rapidly beneath the surface.
So far, 4 bodies have been recovered, and at least 60 passengers are still unaccounted for. Indonesia’s National Search and Rescue Agency (BASARNAS) has deployed multiple ships, helicopters, and dive teams to aid in the search. The Indonesian Navy is also assisting in the mission, using sonar technology to locate the wreckage and possible survivors.
A handful of survivors have been rescued, some found clinging to debris in the water. They are currently receiving medical treatment for injuries, dehydration, and shock.
This incident has reignited concerns over ferry safety regulations in Indonesia, a country with a history of maritime accidents due to aging vessels, overcapacity, and poor weather monitoring. In 2018, more than 160 people died when a ferry sank in Lake Toba, North Sumatra.
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident, including whether the vessel was operating beyond its passenger limit or lacked proper safety equipment on board.
On the shore, anguished family members wait desperately for updates. Makeshift crisis centers have been set up to provide information, medical support, and psychological assistance. Many families are calling on the government to enforce stricter safety measures and improve emergency response times.
The tragedy has garnered international attention, with leaders and humanitarian organizations expressing condolences and offering support. Local charities are coordinating donations of food, clothing, and medicine for affected families.
As the search continues, weather conditions remain a concern. Authorities have urged caution and warned against speculation until a full report is released. A preliminary report is expected within a week, detailing the ferry’s condition, capacity, and the environmental factors involved.
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