A routine ship trip turned into a nightmare on Sunday, July 20, as terrified passengers jumped into the sea to escape a massive fire aboard the KM Barcelona VA near Talise Island in North Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Dramatic video footage shows thick smoke billowing into the sky as flames engulf the ship. Desperate passengers, many wearing life jackets, leapt into the open water—some with children in their arms—as panic spread across the burning vessel.
Fire Breaks Out Mid-Voyage
The KM Barcelona VA was carrying around 280 people, including crew, on a scheduled trip from the Talaud Islands to the port city of Manado. The fire reportedly broke out around midday, quickly consuming the upper decks of the vessel.
Eyewitnesses described a terrifying scene of chaos and confusion.
“We were having lunch when thick smoke filled the cabin,” said Alwina Inang, a survivor and wife of a local police officer. “There was no time—we just jumped into the sea.”
Rescue Efforts Mobilized
Indonesia’s national search and rescue agency, BASARNAS, launched an immediate emergency response. Several navy and coast guard ships were dispatched to the scene. Local fishermen also joined in the effort, pulling dozens of survivors from the water.
According to official reports:
– 284 people were successfully rescued.
– 5 people have been confirmed dead, including a pregnant woman.
– Several others sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals in North Sulawesi.
– A viral livestream from another survivor, Abdul Rahmad Agu, showed passengers floating in the water surrounded by smoke and flames. “We need help fast,” he pleaded during the stream.
Ferry Tragedies: A Recurring Crisis
Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, relies heavily on ferries for transportation. But ferry disasters are tragically common due to poor safety regulations, overloaded vessels, and inadequate emergency protocols.
This latest incident mirrors previous catastrophes like the 2017 Zahro Express fire, which claimed 24 lives. Experts and activists are once again calling for urgent reforms in Indonesia’s maritime transport system.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. Early reports suggest the blaze may have originated in the engine room or from an electrical fault, but no official conclusion has been reached.
Transport Minister Budi Karya Sumadi stated,
“We are prioritizing rescue and medical care for survivors, but we will also hold responsible parties accountable if there was negligence.”
The harrowing escape of passengers from KM Barcelona VA is a sobering reminder of the ongoing dangers of maritime travel in Indonesia. While the courage of the rescue teams and local fishers saved many lives, the tragedy has left families mourning, and a nation once again questioning the safety of its sea routes.
Our thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones.
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