A tragic boat accident has claimed the lives of at least 34 people after a vessel carrying tourists capsized amid a storm in Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s most popular travel destinations. The incident occurred during heavy rain and sudden storms in the UNESCO-listed World Heritage site, known for its stunning blue-green waters and limestone islands.
According to Vietnam’s state media, the boat was carrying 48 tourists and five crew members when it overturned during a fierce thunderstorm early on Saturday. Most of the passengers were from Hanoi, including over 20 children. The storm, characterized by intense lightning and hailstones about the size of fingers, struck suddenly around 2 PM, causing chaos and panic onboard.
Rescue teams from Vietnam’s border guard and security forces have retrieved 34 bodies so far, with several others still missing. The authorities have also rescued 11 individuals from the wreckage. A 10-year-old child who survived described how he swam to safety after the boat capsized, recalling being pulled from the water by soldiers.
The Prime Minister of Vietnam, Fam Minh Chinh, expressed condolences to the families of the victims and ordered the military and security agencies to expedite rescue operations. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the accident, and officials have promised strict action against those responsible.
The incident comes just after heavy rains across northern Vietnam, including Hanoi, Thái Nguyên, and Bac Ninh provinces, where strong winds toppled trees and caused flooding. Ha Long Bay, situated about 175 kilometers from Hanoi, is a major tourist hub, attracting millions annually for its scenic beauty and limestone islands.
Last year, Ha Long Bay was hit by Typhoon Yagu, which sank at least 30 boats along the coast of Quang Ninh province, highlighting the ongoing risks posed by the region’s unpredictable weather.
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