Rescue Operations After Ferry Fire Near Bali

Authorities successfully rescued 172 individuals and recovered a passenger’s body following a ferry fire near Bali. This incident occurred on Wednesday in rough seas close to the Indonesian tourist island.

The blaze began around 4:15 a.m. on the Putri Yasmin ferry. The vessel was traveling from Padang Bai port in Bali to Lembar port on Lombok island, West Nusa Tenggara province. The search and rescue office in Mataram, the provincial capital, reported the fire.

An emergency report was received almost 30 minutes later, prompting immediate deployment of rescue teams and vessels.

“Our top priority is the safety of all passengers and crew members,” said Muhammad Hariyadi, head of the Mataram Search and Rescue Office.

According to initial reports, the ferry was carrying 131 people, including 17 crew members, based on the ship’s manifest. However, officials later confirmed more passengers than listed, a frequent occurrence in Indonesia. The ferry was also transporting 44 vehicles and 53 motorcycles.

The National Search and Rescue Agency, Basarnas, confirmed they evacuated 172 people from the burning ferry. The rescued included two Australian tourists, while the victim was identified as a 19-year-old Indonesian girl.

At least two injured passengers received urgent medical attention at a nearby hospital, said Syamsurizal, head of the Lembar Port Authority.

“The response operation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to account for all victims,” Syamsurizal noted.

This incident follows another ferry fire involving the Mutiara Sentosa 2 near Java less than two weeks prior, resulting in at least five fatalities.