The crew of a tourist submarine that sank off the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, has been questioned following the deaths of six passengers. As the investigation unfolds, the incident raises concerns about safety measures for tourist excursions in the region.
Tragedy in the Red Sea: Submarine Sinking Claims Lives and Prompts Investigation
Tragedy in the Red Sea: Submarine Sinking Claims Lives and Prompts Investigation
The sinking of a tourist submarine in the Red Sea has resulted in six fatalities while sparking an ongoing investigation into safety protocols.
A tourist submarine in the Red Sea sank on Thursday, claiming the lives of six out of 45 passengers aboard. The incident occurred near Hurghada, a prominent resort town, leading to a massive rescue operation that saved the remaining 39 passengers and five crew members. Initial reports indicated that nine individuals sustained injuries, four of whom are in critical condition.
The victims included two children from Russia, deepening the tragedy that struck the international group, which comprised visitors from Russia, India, Norway, and Sweden. Detailed information about the deceased is still being confirmed by authorities in Egypt.
Governor Amr Hanafy stated that the Sindbad submarine had maintained its operational license and that the crew possessed appropriate scientific certifications. As the investigation continues, preliminary findings suggest that the submarine encountered a reef before losing pressure at a depth of 20 meters (65 feet).
The Egyptian tourism sector, which heavily relies on Russian visitors, finds itself grappling with the implications of this incident. Eyewitness accounts and testimonies, including that of Dr. James Aldridge from Bristol who experienced the submarine excursion just months prior, emphasized the vessel's maintenance and the professionalism of the crew, yet raised questions about the adequacy of safety measures on board.
This incident follows a similar maritime disaster last November when a boat sank near Marsa Allam, raising alarms regarding the safety protocols in place for sea excursions in one of Egypt's most visited tourist regions. Authorities are now under scrutiny for ensuring the safety of such excursions, as the public awaits answers about the tragic submarine sinking.
