"I am deeply concerned about this incident. The search and rescue operation is still ongoing. I have instructed that the process be expedited, prioritizing coordination and safety," Minister Purwagandhi stated here on Thursday.
Reports indicate that KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya sank in the Bali Strait on Wednesday night (July 2).
The ferry KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya was sailing from Ketapang Port to Gilimanuk Port. According to the officers' reports, the ferry sank at 11:35 p.m. Western Indonesian Time (WIB), at coordinates 8°9'32.35"S 114°25'6.38"E.
Preliminary manifest data showed that the ferry was carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles of various types.
Since early morning, a joint SAR team comprising personnel from the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), the military, the police, the harbormaster, the Sea and Coast Guard (KPLP), ferry operator ASDP, and other relevant agencies had been deployed.
Related news: MV Tunu Pratama Jaya with 53 passengers, 22 cars sinks off Bali island
As of 10 a.m. local time, 31 passengers had been rescued safely, while four fatalities were confirmed.
Search efforts for the remaining passengers are ongoing, supported by marine vessels and rescue teams from multiple agencies.
The evacuation process is facing challenges due to high waves ranging from 2 to 2.5 meters, strong winds, and powerful currents at the incident site.
Meanwhile, the Transportation Ministry's Directorate General of Sea Transportation expressed deep concern over the incident and assured that all response measures are being carried out safely, promptly, and with a primary focus on saving lives.
Related news: Rescue Tunu Pratama Jaya passengers, crew: Prabowo
Translator: Harianto, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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