Kathmandu— Indonesian authorities on Wednesday rescued over 130 people from a burning ferry traveling the Padang Bai-Lembar route, which connects the tourist island of Bali with neighboring Lombok. The fire erupted around 4:15 a.m. local time while the Putri Yasmin Ferry was underway, and rescue operations were complicated by rough seas with waves reaching up to four meters high. This incident marks the second major ferry fire in Indonesia this month.

Rescue Operation Details

Muhammad Hariyadi, head of the Mataram Search and Rescue Office, confirmed that all passengers had been evacuated from the vessel. “We have approached the ship and confirmed that all passengers are no longer on board,” he stated to Metro TV. Initial reports indicated 114 passengers and 17 crew members were aboard, according to data released by Padang Bai’s port authority, though Hariyadi later noted the total number of passengers was still being verified. The ferry also carried 44 vehicles and 53 motorcycles.

Challenging Conditions

The emergency report reached rescue agencies approximately half an hour after the fire broke out, prompting the immediate deployment of vessels and personnel. Rescuers faced difficulties due to the rough sea conditions, with waves reaching a height of four meters. A nearby ferry assisted in the evacuation, bringing 30 passengers back to Bali. Another 59 rescued individuals were transported toward Lembar port via search and rescue vessel, while a naval vessel picked up an additional 17.

Pattern of Marine Incidents

This latest incident adds to a concerning pattern of marine accidents in Indonesia, where ferries are a primary mode of transportation. Just last week, five people died in another ferry fire off the coast of Java Island. In July of the previous year, nearly 20 people perished when a ferry sank between Java and Bali. Furthermore, last month a ferry carrying over 70 people sank near Seayar Island; while four bodies were recovered, 14 passengers remain officially missing.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire and assess any potential damage to the vessel. The incident underscores ongoing concerns about marine safety in Indonesia.

(With inputs from DW)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.