Egyptian authorities are investigating a tragic incident involving a tourist submarine that sank in the Red Sea, resulting in the deaths of six people. The accident occurred near the resort town of Hurghada, where the submarine, known as the Sindbad, was taking 45 passengers on a sightseeing tour to view the vibrant coral reefs.
The sinking happened around 10:00 AM local time on Thursday. While six people lost their lives, including two children, the remaining 39 passengers and five crew members were rescued. Among the deceased were two married doctors, whose daughters were hospitalized with injuries.
The passengers aboard the Sindbad were primarily from Russia, India, Norway, and Sweden. The local governor, Amr Hanafy, confirmed that all six fatalities were Russian nationals, although further details about the victims have not yet been released.
Reports suggest that the submarine may have struck a reef, which caused it to lose pressure while submerged at a depth of 20 meters (about 65 feet). The Sindbad submarine had been operating as a tourist attraction for several years and was said to have a valid license and a qualified crew.
An investigation is currently underway to determine the exact cause of the incident. The Association of Tour Operators of Russia noted that the submarine experienced a critical failure after hitting the reef. This incident marks the second sinking in the Red Sea within six months, raising concerns about safety measures for tourist excursions in the region.
Hurghada is a popular destination known for its beautiful beaches and rich marine life, attracting many tourists looking to explore the underwater world. However, this tragic event has sparked questions about the safety protocols in place for such activities, especially given the recent history of similar accidents.
As the investigation continues, families of the victims and the broader community are left grappling with the aftermath of this devastating event.