A devastating incident has unfolded in the Red Sea, off the coast of Egypt, where a tourist submarine carrying 44 passengers, including children, sank during an underwater excursion. The tragedy has resulted in the loss of at least six lives and left many more injured.
The ill-fated submarine, operated by Sindbad, was on a routine tour of the coral reefs in the Hurghada area when disaster struck. According to eyewitnesses, the vessel began to sink in front of a hotel marina, prompting a massive rescue operation.
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Emergency services, including 21 ambulances and security forces, rushed to the scene to assist in the rescue efforts. While 29 people were rescued, six foreign nationals, including a child, lost their lives in the tragedy. Nine others were injured, with four reported to be in critical condition.
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Sindbad, the company operating the submarine, has been offering underwater excursions in the Hurghada area for several years. Their website boasts of two “real recreational submarines” that can descend 82 feet deep into the sea, providing breathtaking views of the coral reefs and marine life.
The incident has raised concerns about safety standards in the region. The UK government had issued a safety warning just last month, advising travelers to exercise caution when booking liveaboard diving holidays in the Red Sea. The warning came after 16 accidents were reported in the area over the past five years, resulting in multiple fatalities.
As investigations into the incident continue, the focus is on ensuring that such tragedies are prevented in the future. The Hurghada area, a popular tourist destination, attracts millions of visitors each year, and it is essential that safety standards are upheld to protect the lives of tourists and locals alike.
