All 460 Passengers and Crew Evacuated Safely After Ferry Catches Fire Off Java
All 460 people aboard the passenger ferry KMP Batumandi were safely evacuated on Tuesday after a fire broke out during a voyage off Indonesia’s Java island. The vessel was carrying 420 passengers and 40 crew members when flames erupted near Merak Besar Island in Banten province, forcing a multi-vessel rescue operation across the Sunda Strait.
Hours-Long Maritime Rescue Operation Mobilizes 18 Vessels
Authorities deployed a fleet of 18 vessels and supporting units to battle the blaze and rescue those stranded on the water. The response included rescue boats, tugboats, patrol vessels, and local fishing boats working in coordination. Footage broadcasted by multiple networks captured thick black smoke pouring from the ferry as panicked passengers scrambled to safety. The Banten Search and Rescue Agency stated that the evacuation began after the fire broke out at approximately 4:15 p.m. local time, with all passengers and crew removed from the burning ship by 6:30 p.m., as reported by Bernama.
Hospitalizations Reported as Evacuees Reach Port
While officials confirmed no casualties immediately following the incident, Bernama reported that 11 individuals required medical treatment and were transported to a local hospital in nearby Cilegon. The remaining passengers and crew were transferred to another ferry and brought ashore to Merak port for further assessment. Emergency teams completed firefighting and cooling operations at approximately 9:25 p.m., while rescue personnel remained stationed nearby to monitor the situation, according to Bernama.
Ongoing Investigation Into the Sunda Strait Incident
The cause of the fire remains unknown, with formal investigations expected to begin once authorities thoroughly secure and inspect the vessel. The accident occurred near Merak, a vital ferry port connecting the islands of Java and Sumatra across the Sunda Strait, which serves as one of Indonesia’s busiest maritime corridors. The incident places renewed scrutiny on the archipelago’s maritime safety record following a major tragedy last month when a ferry capsized in the Java Sea, resulting in more than 80 deaths.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ferry Fire
Where was the ferry traveling when the fire started?
The KMP Batumandi was operating near Merak Besar Island in Banten province, traversing the Sunda Strait between the major Indonesian islands of Java and Sumatra.
How many people required medical attention after the rescue?
The Banten Search and Rescue Agency reported that 11 people were taken to a local hospital in Cilegon for medical treatment following the evacuation.
What resources were used to put out the fire and rescue passengers?
Authorities mobilized a total of 18 vessels and supporting units, which included dedicated rescue boats, tugboats, patrol vessels, and local fishing boats.
More on Indonesia
Related reading
- UK Deports Man Convicted Over Arson Attacks on Keir Starmer’s Properties
- Study reveals racial disparities in emergency department triage decisions
- Across The Shield: C.J. Stroud is Elite Again, Jaxon Smith-Njigba Ties Career-High with 12 Catches and Carnell Tate Scores His First NFL Touchdown (newsylist.com)