Ferry catches fire in Indonesia, claiming lives
- A passenger ferry named KM Barcelona caught fire near Talise Island in Indonesia while traveling from Lirung to Manado.
- Emergency services evacuated over 280 individuals as ongoing rescue efforts commenced, with the confirmed death toll reaching five.
- The incident highlights ongoing concerns related to maritime safety enforcement in Indonesia's ferry transport system.
On a recent Sunday near Sulawesi island in Indonesia, a passenger ferry experienced a devastating fire while on its way to Manado from Lirung. The KM Barcelona, which was carrying approximately 280 passengers and crew members, caught fire near Talise Island, leading to panic among those onboard. Thick smoke and flames erupted from the vessel, prompting many passengers, including children, to jump into the choppy sea in a desperate attempt to escape the smoke and flames. As the fire raged, the Indonesian National Search and Rescue Agency confirmed that at least five individuals had lost their lives, including a pregnant woman, while numerous others were evaluated for potential injuries. Emergency services were mobilized quickly, with three navy ships deployed to assist in search and rescue efforts. Local fishermen also played a significant role in rescuing survivors who had fled into the water. By the end of the day, approximately 284 individuals were reported to have been evacuated from the area as rescue operations continued. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of this tragic incident, reinforcing the concerns surrounding maritime safety in the region. Indonesia, with its vast archipelago and reliance on ferries for travel, has faced similar incidents in the past, raising alarm regarding weak safety enforcement and the need for improved regulations.