Thailand Accident: Tourist Boat Carrying 120 Passengers Overturns, 5 Dead

5 Dead, 120 Injured in Tourist Boat Overturn Accident in Thailand

On Thursday, a tourist boat carrying about 120 passengers overturned near Phuket, Thailand. According to local authorities, the boat was carrying primarily Chinese tourists when it capsized. As of now, five people have been confirmed dead, and 120 have been injured, with 5 in critical condition.

Rescue Efforts Underway

Rescue workers have been dispatched to the scene and are currently searching for anyone still missing. The majority of the passengers have already been rescued. Many tourists were treated at local hospitals for injuries.

Investigation into the Accident

The cause of the accident is still under investigation. The boat was reportedly carrying more passengers than its capacity of 100. Authorities are looking into whether overloading or rough seas contributed to the accident. They will also check the safety measures and regulations of the boat operator.

Safety Concerns Raised

This accident has raised concerns about the safety of tourist boats in Thailand. In recent years, there have been several similar accidents involving tourist boats, including a 2018 incident where 47 Chinese tourists died when their boat sank off the coast of Phuket. Authorities are urging tourists to exercise caution when choosing boat tours and to ensure they use reputable operators.

Impact on Tourism

The accident is likely to have a significant impact on tourism in Phuket, which heavily relies on tourism for its economy. The Thai government has expressed condolences to the victims and their families and has promised to provide assistance to those affected by the accident.

Tips for Staying Safe on Boat Tours:

• Choose a reputable boat operator with a good safety record.
• Make sure the boat is not overcrowded.
• Wear a life jacket at all times.
• Be aware of the weather conditions and avoid going out in rough seas.
• Follow the instructions of the boat crew.