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AM, AMR HANAFY, ASIA, ASSOCIATION OF TOUR OPERATORS OF RUSSIA, BBC, EUROPE, EUROPE/ASIA, HURGHADA, INCIDENT, INDIA, KRISTINA VALLIULINA, MARITIME, MISSING PERSONS, NORTH AMERICA, NORWAY, RED SEA, RED SEA PROVINCE, RESCUE OPERATION, RESCUE OPERATIONS, RUSSIA, SINBAD, SINDBAD, SWEDEN, UNITED STATES
Nia Simpson
Tragic Sinking of Egyptian Tourist Submarine Highlights Safety Failures
A recent incident involving the Sindbad tourist submarine in Egypt resulted in the tragic deaths of six passengers while others were rescued. Investigations have commenced, revealing that safety procedures were inadequately followed, leading to catastrophic consequences as the submarine submerged during boarding.
Recent footage has depicted a horrific incident involving an Egyptian tourist submarine, Sindbad, which began to sink while passengers were still boarding. As tourists prepared to embark on their underwater excursion in the Red Sea, the hatch remained open, leading to an alarming situation as water inundated the vessel. Ultimately, six individuals lost their lives while 39 others, alongside five crew members, were rescued; at least nine sustained injuries, with four, including a child, reported to be in critical condition.
Authorities in Egypt have initiated an investigation into the tragedy and have interrogated the submarine’s crew. Reports indicate that the crew leader possessed the necessary ‘scientific certificates,’ and the Sindbad operated with a valid license. Preliminary findings suggest that the submarine collided with a reef, causing a loss of pressure at a depth of 20 meters.
The disconcerting events unfolded as 45 tourists, primarily from Russia, India, Norway, and Sweden, gathered for a sightseeing venture to explore coral reefs. Among the deceased were six Russian nationals, with two children confirmed to be among the victims. Dr. Kristina Valliulina, a pediatrician who was initially reported dead, has been found to have survived the incident with her daughters.
Survivors have recounted their harrowing experiences, particularly recalling the panic as the submarine commenced its descent. One passenger, Regina, described the chaos as it began to submerge while they were still boarding. She noted that her family was saved because they were on top of the vessel, allowing them to escape.
Criticism has emerged regarding the handling of the situation by crew members, including the decision to begin the descent without ensuring that passengers were safely aboard and the hatches secured. Regina highlighted the absence of life-saving equipment on the pontoon, which compounded the dire circumstances. Other witnesses have corroborated the urgency of the situation and the frantic efforts to rescue individuals caught in the water.
The Sindbad submarine had been operational for several years and is recognized for providing scenic underwater tours. The craft was designed to reach depths of 25 meters, offering passengers views of marine life and coral formations. Despite its licensed status, the submarine’s safety procedures have come under scrutiny following this tragic incident.
Tourism, particularly from Russian nationals, plays a crucial role in Egypt’s economy. However, the recent string of accidents in the region, including capsizing boats, raises serious concerns about the safety protocols in place for tourists engaging in nautical activities. Egypt faces significant challenges in maintaining tourism safety, underscoring the importance of regulatory vigilance.
The tragic sinking of the Sindbad submarine during a tourist excursion underscores critical lapses in safety and procedure, culminating in the loss of six lives and injuries to others. Amidst a flourishing tourism sector, the need for stringent adherence to safety regulations is paramount to prevent future catastrophes. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with water tourism and the responsibility of operators to ensure passenger safety.
Original Source: www.dailymail.co.uk
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