Lombok strait: The number of people evacuated after a fire engulfed passenger ferry KMP Putri Yasmin in Indonesia's Lombok Strait has risen to 212 after another 39 were brought ashore. The Mataram Search and Rescue (SAR) Office said the latest update included 211 survivors and one passenger confirmed dead.
According to Nam News Network, the 39 people were evacuated from the scene by KMP Parama Kalyani, which arrived at Lembar Port at about 9.40 pm local time on Wednesday after assisting in search and evacuation operations in the strait. The Mataram SAR Office stated that survivors had been taken to the command post for medical examinations and further treatment.
Synergy and coordination among the various teams on the ground continue to be strengthened to ensure that all victims receive prompt and optimal assistance, the office said in its latest social media post. The fire aboard KMP Putri Yasmin was reported at 4.15 am local time on Wednesday while the vessel was en route from Padang Bai Port in Bali to Lembar Port in West Nusa Tenggara. The Mataram SAR Office received the emergency report at 4.39 am.
A major search and rescue operation was launched, involving rescue vessels and boats as well as aerial surveillance. Vessels operating in the vicinity also provided assistance during the evacuation.