Ferry sinks off Bali, Indonesia; four dead, dozens missing

The recent sinking of a ferry off the coast of Bali, Indonesia, has resulted in a tragic loss of life and raised significant concerns regarding maritime safety in the region. The incident occurred while the vessel was en route from Banyuwangi on Java island, carrying 53 passengers and 12 crew members . As rescue operations continue, authorities have confirmed four fatalities and reported that dozens remain missing. This unfortunate event underscores the potential dangers associated with maritime travel in Indonesia.

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.

Sea and weather conditions were reportedly improving during the morning, aiding the search for survivors.

Banyuwangi police chief, Rama Samtama Putra, said many of the survivors were initially unconscious after spending hours drifting in the ocean.

Panicked family members rushed to the departure port, some crying, as they sought information about their loved ones and hoped they were among the survivors.

The ship that sank on Wednesday, the KMT Tunu Pratama Jaya, was the second passenger ferry to sink off Bali in the past month. The other capsized in early June as it left a port on the island. All 89 people aboard were rescued.

Many of those rescued were unconscious after drifting in choppy waters for hours, Banyuwangi Police Chief Rama Samtama Putra said.

Indonesian authorities are investigating the cause of the accident. Survivors told rescuers there appeared to be a leak in the engine room of the ferry, which was carrying 22 vehicles including 14 trucks.

Some family members arrived at the port in a panic or weeping as they sought information about their loved ones.

Initial investigations suggest that engine trouble may have contributed to the ferry's sinking . The rapid response by rescue teams has resulted in the recovery of 29 survivors; however, the fate of many others is still uncertain . This incident not only highlights immediate humanitarian concerns but also calls for a thorough examination of regulatory practices governing ferry operations to prevent future tragedies.

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Sara H

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