Meanwhile, the condition of the surviving tourists has improved considerably.
Efforts are underway to bring back the bodies of the 15 Indian tourists who lost their lives in the devastating speedboat accident near Vietnam's Phu Quoc Island, with Indian diplomatic officials working closely with local authorities to complete the necessary formalities.
The Ministry of External Affairs, through the Indian Embassy in Hanoi, confirmed that the mortal remains have been shifted to Ho Chi Minh City, where documentation and legal procedures are being completed before they are flown to India at the earliest opportunity.
Officials said the Indian Embassy and the Consulate General have remained in constant coordination with Vietnamese agencies to ensure a smooth repatriation process while also extending support to the victims' families.
Meanwhile, the condition of the surviving tourists has improved considerably. Of the 17 people rescued, 16 have either returned or are in the process of returning to India after receiving medical treatment. However, one Indian tourist continues to battle for life at a hospital in Phu Quoc, where doctors are providing intensive medical care.
The victims belonged primarily to southern India, with 10 from Tamil Nadu, three from Andhra Pradesh and two from Kerala. Authorities in all three states have established dedicated helplines to assist grieving families with information related to the tragedy and the arrival of the victims' remains.
The accident occurred on Saturday when a speedboat carrying 32 Indian tourists and four Vietnamese crew members overturned during its return journey from an island excursion. The vessel capsized a short distance from Hon May Rut Ngoai Island, one of Phu Quoc's popular tourist destinations.
Eyewitnesses said nearby boats rushed to rescue passengers before Vietnamese rescue teams, including border guards, coast guard personnel and naval units, joined the operation. Several passengers were reportedly trapped beneath the overturned vessel, complicating rescue efforts.
Vietnamese authorities have not yet confirmed the exact reason behind the accident. However, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung has directed officials to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident and identify any lapses that may have contributed to the tragedy.
The Indian Embassy has expressed gratitude to the Vietnamese government and emergency responders for their swift rescue efforts and assistance provided to the victims and their families during the crisis. Officials said they remain in touch with the lone hospitalised survivor and continue to monitor the situation until all affected Indian nationals are safely brought home.
