A ferry carrying approximately 100 people encountered a fire incident on its journey to a well-known tourist spot in Thailand early Thursday. The situation led passengers to leap into the sea for safety, but fortunately, everyone was rescued.
Escaping the Flames
As the ferry, traveling from Surat Thani to Koh Tao island, neared its destination, reports of a fire emerged. Passengers, alarmed by the flames, took to the sea wearing life jackets to evade the danger. Videos captured during the incident depict the tense moments as the fire engulfed parts of the vessel.
Chaotic Rescue Efforts
Maitree Promjampa, a passenger on board, described the chaotic scene, highlighting the urgency to secure life vests amidst the turmoil. He mentioned the emotional distress among passengers, with some in tears as they faced the alarming situation. Despite swift rescue attempts by nearby boats after 20 minutes, concerns about a potential explosion hindered their approach.
Passenger Count and Investigation
Local authorities confirmed 97 passengers and 11 crew members aboard the ferry. The Bangkok Post reported that the fire originated in the engine room, prompting an ongoing investigation into the cause of the incident.
Impact on Tourism
Koh Tao, known for its popularity among tourists, holds significant importance in Thailand’s tourism sector. The government’s ambitious target of attracting 29 million foreign visitors in 2023 underscores the vital role tourism plays in the nation’s economy, aiming to surpass pre-pandemic tourist numbers recorded in 2019.
