Bangkok [Thailand], April 5: A fierce fire caused panic among passengers on a ferry bound for the popular Thai holiday island of Koh Tao.
The fire broke out in the engine room on Thursday morning, a few kilometres from the landing stage, the Bangkok Post newspaper reported, citing the emergency services.
Several passengers jumped into the sea and were rescued by boats that came to help. There were no reports of any injuries, though some people were treated for minor smoke inhalation, the Thaiger news portal reported.
The police said there were 97 passengers on board, including many foreigners, and 11 crew members. Photos and videos circulated on the internet showed the ship burning brightly. An investigation has been launched into the cause of the accident.
The ferry was travelling from Surat Thani on the mainland to Koh Tao, which is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Gulf of Thailand.
Dramatic video shows the boat - which was loaded with cargo, at least two vehicles and several mopeds - on fire and becoming engulfed with smoke as terrified passengers flee to the upper floors wearing orange life jackets waiting to be rescued.
Police Colonel Chokchai Sutthimek, superintendent of the Koh Tao Police Station, said the vessel was mid-sea and approaching the pier at Koh Tao at around 6:30am local time when the fire broke out.
"The fire originated in the engine room while the boat was mid-sea and approaching the pier at Koh Tao, causing panic among passengers, some of whom jumped overboard," Sutthimek said. Officers said that all 108 people were safely returned to shore while authorities towed the damaged ferry back to the pier.
The neighbouring islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao are popular with tourists from all over the world. Many visit all three islands, which are connected by regular ferry services.
Source: Qatar Tribune
