Ferry with 38 aboard suffers technical failure near Gateway of India, all rescued safely
The Anwari ferry experienced a mechanical breakdown 1.5 nautical miles from Mumbai's Gateway of India on Thursday evening. Swift coordination between authorities and nearby operators ensured all 34 passengers and four crew members returned safely.
Ferry with 38 aboard suffers technical failure near Gateway of India, all rescued safely
A passenger ferry carrying 34 travelers and four crew members experienced a technical malfunction in the Arabian Sea near Mumbai's Gateway of India on Thursday evening, triggering an immediate rescue response that brought all 38 people safely back to shore.
The Anwari ferry, which operates short sea excursions from the Gateway of India at Apollo Bunder, developed mechanical problems at approximately 8:30 PM while returning from its route. The vessel became stranded roughly 1.5 nautical miles from the iconic monument, built in 1924 and recognized as Mumbai's premier tourist landmark.
Swift rescue operation launched
Mumbai Police received notification of the incident through their control room and immediately coordinated with nearby ferry operators to mount a rescue operation. Another ferry was dispatched to the location and successfully reached the disabled vessel.
The rescue boat towed the Anwari ferry back to the jetty at Gateway of India, where all passengers and crew disembarked without incident. No injuries were reported.
Gateway of India ferry operations
The Gateway of India serves as the main departure point for ferry services to Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located approximately 10 kilometers from Mumbai. Ferry operations from the landmark utilize five boat jetties, with the second and third jetties designated for commercial services including tours to Elephanta Island and other destinations across Mumbai Harbour.
Ferry services from the Gateway of India are regulated by the Maharashtra Maritime Board, which renews route and operating licenses annually, while the Mumbai Port Authority approves ticket fares. Vessels operating from the location include luxury ferries, economy ferries, catamarans and speedboats, with some having capacities of up to 90 people including crew.
Enhanced safety measures following fatal collision
The incident occurred in waters where heightened safety protocols have been implemented following a fatal collision in December 2024. An Indian Navy speedboat undergoing engine trials collided with the passenger ferry Neel Kamal en route to Elephanta Island, resulting in at least 13 deaths. Following that accident, Mumbai authorities mandated life jackets for all ferry passengers and imposed stricter safety regulations.
Ferry journeys from Gateway of India to nearby destinations typically take approximately one hour each way through the Arabian Sea. Services operate daily except Mondays, with departures from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Operations are typically suspended during monsoon season from late May through August due to rough seas and high-tide conditions.
Authorities are expected to investigate the technical failure that disabled the Anwari ferry. The swift response by Mumbai Police and coordinating ferry operators prevented what could have been a more serious situation, ensuring all 38 people aboard returned safely to the Gateway of India jetty.
