A passenger ferry caught fire off the coast of Madura Island in Indonesia, forcing hundreds of passengers and crew to evacuate as emergency teams mounted a large-scale rescue operation at sea.
The fire reportedly broke out while the vessel was sailing in waters between Java and Madura, sending thick black smoke billowing from the ferry and triggering panic among those on board. Passengers were seen wearing life jackets as they were evacuated to nearby rescue boats and other vessels responding to the emergency.
Indonesia’s search and rescue agency (Basarnas), the navy and local maritime authorities deployed rescue teams to the scene after receiving distress calls. Fishing boats operating nearby also assisted in evacuating passengers from the burning vessel.
Authorities said most passengers were rescued safely, while several people sustained injuries, including burns and smoke inhalation. Those rescued were taken to nearby ports for medical evaluation and treatment. Officials were still verifying the exact number of passengers and crew aboard the ferry, as well as the number of casualties.
Firefighters and maritime response teams worked to bring the blaze under control and prevent it from spreading throughout the vessel. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and an investigation has been launched.
Indonesia, an archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, relies heavily on ferry transport for passenger and cargo movement. Maritime accidents, including fires, sinkings and overcrowding incidents, have occurred periodically, prompting repeated calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and vessel inspections.
Authorities said a full inquiry would examine whether the ferry complied with safety requirements and whether mechanical failure, an electrical fault or another factor triggered the blaze. The government is also expected to review the emergency response as rescue operations conclude.
