Mumbai: A major revelation has come to light in the recent ferry boat accident near Gateway of India. According to sources, the Navy's preliminary investigation has revealed that the speedboat's hydraulic steering suddenly locked during the engine trial, causing it to collide with a ferry boat.
Sources stated that Marcos Commando Karamveer Yadav, who was operating the speedboat during the trial, tried to steer it in another direction, but the steering lock rendered the boat uncontrollable. This led to a direct collision with the ferry boat ahead.
Karamveer Yadav had recently completed his CD-3 (Clearance Diver) training in Goa and was posted to Mumbai recently. CD-3 training certifies a diver to operate at depths of 35–100 meters in the sea. Based on this qualification, Yadav was entrusted with the responsibility of operating the speedboat.
Injured Engineer's Statement
As per the statement of assistant engineer Deep Kishor Nikoshe, who was injured in the accident, Yadav’s efforts diverted the speedboat from hitting the ferry's midsection, where the diesel tank was located. The collision occurred at the rear of the ferry instead. Had it struck the diesel tank, the ferry could have caught fire instantly. The Colaba Police are investigating whether the trial's location an area frequented by passenger ferries—was appropriate. Nikoshe’s statement revealed that Shekhawat risked his life to ensure the safety of ferry passengers, choosing to avert disaster rather than save himself.
The investigation has so far pointed to the sudden hydraulic steering lock as the primary cause of the accident. Further inquiries are underway to confirm the findings and assess if procedural lapses contributed to the mishap.
