As the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) maintained that overloading was not a factor in the Neelkamal ferry’s capsize on Wednesday, concerns are mounting over the board’s oversight of ferry operations in Mumbai.

The accident, which unfolded on Wednesday, claimed 14 lives and left three injured, including a four-year-old girl and an eight-month pregnant woman. Both are in stable condition, while a Navy staffer’s condition remains serious, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar told the state assembly.

Also Read:Death toll rises to 14 in Mumbai naval boat and ferry collision, search continues for missing child

The passenger ferry was carrying over 100 people from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, a popular tourist destination. It collided with a high-speed Navy boat conducting engine trials, which reportedly lost control before striking the ferry.

The Neelkamal ferry was carrying more than its licensed capacity of 90 passengers. The MMB confirmed that of the 113 people aboard both vessels, 14 died, and 98 were rescued, including two injured.

According to The Indian Express report, the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) has suspended the Neelkamal ferry operator’s license following Wednesday’s tragedy, citing overcrowding. However, officials maintain that the crash was caused by the Navy craft’s high speed and loss of control rather than overloading.

Also Read:Mumbai ferry accident: ‘By far the most tragic rescue operation,’ recalls first responder

For operators who violate capacity limits, the MMB imposes a fine of just Rs 200 per extra passenger—a penalty many believe is too lenient, considering the risks involved. While ferries are detained until the fine is paid, licenses are often reinstated without additional restrictions, raising questions about the enforcement of safety regulations.

Ferry operators are required to undergo annual fitness inspections as part of their license renewal process. However, these inspections are not continuous, leading critics to doubt whether such measures are sufficient to guarantee passenger safety.

Also Read:13 killed after ferryboat with 110 on board capsizes off Gateway of India in Mumbai

The incident has sparked fresh concerns about the safety of Mumbai’s ferry services, particularly on popular routes like the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island.

An MMB official admitted that slight overloading often occurs when families prefer to travel together, but this has put the spotlight on safety protocols as the investigation into the collision continues. Meanwhile, the Navy has launched its own internal inquiry into the accident.