Indonesia is searching for 29 people who remain missing after a ferry sank near the resort island of Bali. The incident occurred on Wednesday, when the KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya ferry capsized in the waters off Banyuwangi, East Java.
Six people lost their lives in the accident, with the bodies recovered on Thursday afternoon. A 3-year-old boy and his mother were among the victims found deceased. The rescue efforts have so far rescued 30 people from the ferry’s 53 passengers and 12 crew members.
Rescue operations have been hampered by strong waves and darkness, but improved conditions allowed for a more focused search on Thursday morning. Weather reports indicated waves of up to 2.5 meters high with strong currents and winds.
The cause of the accident is under investigation, but survivors reported seeing a leak in the engine room before the ferry sank. The incident highlights concerns over ferry safety in Indonesia, where ferries are often used as transport despite lax safety regulations.
A total of 22 vehicles were on board, including 14 trucks. Survivors described clinging to life jackets and floating until rescued.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/ferry-sinking-bali-indonesia-c341cc2834693c90ac1a5af1015ecb3a