‘We Tried CPR, But It Was Too Late’: Vietnam Boat Tragedy Witnesses Recall Horror on Return to Hyderabad
Vietnam Boat Tragedy Witnesses returning to Hyderabad have shared heartbreaking accounts of the speedboat accident near Phu Quoc Island that killed 15 Indian tourists. Survivors described frantic efforts to rescue passengers after the boat overturned within seconds, saying they performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on several victims but were unable to save many of them.
“We tried CPR, but it was too late,” one survivor recalled, describing the chaotic moments after passengers were pulled from the water. Witnesses also alleged that delays in emergency medical treatment reduced the chances of saving more lives, though the exact circumstances remain under investigation by Vietnamese authorities.
Boat Capsized Within Seconds
According to survivors, the speedboat had travelled only a short distance from Hon May Rut Ngoai Island, near Phu Quoc, when rough sea conditions caused it to overturn.
Passengers had little time to react as the vessel flipped rapidly. Nearby boats rushed to the scene and local residents joined rescue efforts, helping pull survivors and victims from the water. Witnesses said the accident unfolded in a matter of seconds, leaving many trapped beneath the overturned boat.
Desperate Rescue Efforts
Survivors said everyone present tried to help.
Several passengers and local rescuers performed CPR on people rescued from the water while waiting for medical assistance. Witnesses claimed that although rescue boats arrived quickly, emergency medical facilities on the nearby island were limited, and some victims could not be revived despite repeated attempts.
Some eyewitnesses also alleged that quicker medical intervention might have improved the chances of survival for a number of victims. These claims have not yet been independently verified and form part of the broader investigation.
Families Return to Hyderabad
Many members of the tourist group belonged to Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, with several survivors returning to Hyderabad after receiving medical treatment and clearance from Vietnamese authorities.
Their arrival was marked by emotional reunions with family members, while relatives of those who died continued to await the return of the victims’ mortal remains. The Indian Embassy in Vietnam has been coordinating with local authorities to complete documentation and repatriation.
Investigation Underway
Vietnamese authorities have launched an investigation into the accident.
Police have detained the boat’s captain as part of the inquiry into possible violations of waterway transport safety regulations. Investigators are examining weather conditions, the boat’s operation, safety procedures, and witness statements to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.
Questions Over Safety Measures
The incident has raised concerns about tourist safety during island excursions.
Some survivors questioned whether adequate safety precautions were followed before departure and alleged lapses in crew decision-making. Authorities have not reached any final conclusions, and investigators are expected to review all available evidence before releasing their findings.
India Extends Support
The Indian Embassy has been assisting survivors and the families of those who lost their lives.
Officials are working with Vietnamese authorities to expedite the repatriation of the deceased and facilitate travel arrangements for survivors. Both governments have expressed condolences and pledged full cooperation during the investigation and relief efforts.
What Happens Next?
The investigation will continue in Vietnam while authorities assess whether any violations of maritime safety regulations contributed to the accident.
Meanwhile, survivors are recovering physically and emotionally after the traumatic experience. The findings of the official investigation are expected to shape any legal action and recommendations aimed at improving tourist boat safety.
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