Authorities investigate the sinking of a submarine in the Red Sea, prompting questions regarding marine safety standards as the tourism sector feels the impact.
Tragic Submarine Incident in Red Sea Claims Six Lives
Tragic Submarine Incident in Red Sea Claims Six Lives
Six dead and several injured after tourist submarine disaster sparks safety concerns.
Egyptian officials have launched an investigation following the tragic sinking of a tourist submarine in the Red Sea, which resulted in six fatalities among the 45 passengers on board. The Sindbad submarine, which was on a coral reef sightseeing excursion near Hurghada, sank at approximately 10:00 local time, leaving 39 survivors and five crew members grappling with the aftermath of the incident.
Among those who perished were two young children, part of a Russian family, as confirmed by local media. The Russian victims included two married doctors, whose daughters are now receiving critical medical attention. The Red Sea governor, Amr Hanafy, reported that the passengers hailed from various countries, including Russia, India, Norway, and Sweden, with the crew comprising solely of Egyptians.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the submarine encountered difficulties after striking a reef at a depth of 20 meters (65 feet), causing it to lose pressure. The Sindbad, a well-known vessel for several years, had a valid operational license and its captain possessed the required qualifications, according to Mr. Hanafy.
This incident marks a concerning trend, as it is the second maritime disaster in the Red Sea within six months. Last November, a boat named Sea Story sank near Marsa Allam, leading to multiple missing persons. The frequency of such occurrences raises crucial questions about the safety measures implemented in these popular tourist destinations and whether thorough safety inspections are being maintained to prevent future tragedies.
Tourists who have experienced the Sindbad submarine previously described it as well-maintained and operated with professional staff. This latest incident highlights the urgent need for a review of safety protocols to protect tourists and ensure that such devastating incidents do not recur.
As the resilience of Egypt’s tourism sector is heavily tested, the implications of this incident not only reverberate through the families affected but also threaten the broader economic landscape that relies on international visitors to its famed dive sites and coral reefs.
