The Initial Breakdown
The incident unfolded on a Sunday, affecting the Ro-Ro ferry service connecting Saphale and Virar. This service typically completes the journey across
the Vaitarna creek in approximately 10 minutes. The ferry, having departed from Jalsar in Saphale at 5:40 pm, was expected to arrive at Virar's Narangi jetty by 5:50 pm. However, a hydraulic issue, specifically a burst hose pipe, led to the ramp failing and preventing the disembarkation of passengers and vehicles. The situation was further complicated by low tide conditions, as recalled by eyewitnesses. The breakdown resulted in over 70 individuals and 52 vehicles being stranded. According to Captain CJ Lepande, Regional Port Officer of the Bandra group of Ports, Mumbai, the ferry carried at least 70 people, 17 four-wheelers, and 35 two-wheelers at the time of the incident. Repairs were promptly initiated after the incident came to light.
Rescue and Recovery
Following the mechanical failure, immediate steps were taken to address the situation. Repairs were promptly initiated to fix the pipe, and once completed, the ramp was operational. This allowed the safe disembarkation of all passengers and vehicles. The clearing of the jetty was completed by 7:20 pm on the same Sunday. Officials confirmed that no injuries were reported during the incident. The swift response and the absence of injuries were a testament to the effective handling of the emergency. Captain CJ Lepande provided details on the number of people and vehicles involved. The rapid repair of the ferry and subsequent disembarkation of passengers and vehicles were essential in resolving the situation quickly.
Passenger Experience & Delays
The incident left over 70 individuals stranded for nearly two hours. Passengers experienced significant delays due to the technical snag. The Ro-Ro ferry service, known for its short travel time, experienced considerable disruptions. One passenger who was stranded on the ferry expressed concern about the long waiting periods, which can reach three hours. The passenger highlighted the need for increased service frequency to mitigate such delays and the importance of prioritizing passenger safety to prevent similar incidents in the future. The stranded passengers were stuck on the ferry for nearly two hours before repairs allowed for the safe disembarkation. The incident highlights the challenges faced by the service and the need for improvements to ensure passenger satisfaction and safety.
