- Night ferry to Koh Tao catches fire, passengers leap overboard
- Passengers recount panic as fire engulfs ferry off Thailand coast
- All 108 passengers, including children, safely rescued; investigation underway
As captured on camera, massive columns of black smoke emanated from the ferry’s engine room en route to Koh Tao, a well-liked tourist locale offshore from Thailand.
Off the coast of Thailand, terrified passengers have leapt into the water to flee a fire that broke out on a night ferry bound for a popular tourist destination.
A passenger aboard the vessel en route from Surat Thani province to Koh Tao noticed an abrupt crackling sound and the odour of smoke.
Maitree Promjampa reported that within five minutes, he observed fire and towering smoke; at that moment, individuals began to yell and sound the alarm.
He explained to the Associated Press that “it was extremely difficult to obtain the life vests in time.”
“A disorderly situation ensued.” “There were people in tears.”
According to a Facebook post by officials, all 108 individuals on board were unharmed, with 97 of them being passengers.
Public relations for the province reported that all individuals were rescued without incident.
The footage captured substantial columns of black smoke from the ferry, carrying families, vehicles, and even small children. Several boats rushed to their aid.
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Individuals were observed hastening from the ferry’s cabin to don life jackets as the vessel was engulfed in flames and dense black smoke engulfed the cabin.
According to Mr. Promjampa, a resident of Surat Thani who frequently travels to Koh Tao for work, individuals were compelled to leap into the sea because the vessels could not approach safely for fear of detonating.
“Everyone had to help themselves,” he indicated.
Ultimately, suppression was achieved of the conflagration.
The incident originated in the engine room, but officials say the cause is being investigated.
The tourist- and commuter-operating ferry did not capsize.
