After a tourist boat capsized off Phu Quoc, an injured Andhra Pradesh visitor is stabilising, while the remains of the 15 deceased Indians are being repatriated. The Indian Embassy in Vietnam has officially appointed a repatriation agency.
Key Takeaways
- Injured AP tourist Gelle Kishore is receiving treatment and improving
- Remains of 15 Indian victims are being transferred from Ho Chi Minh City to India
- Indian Embassy has designated an authorized agency to manage repatriation
A tourist boat carrying Indian nationals capsized near Hon May Rut Ngoai Island, off Phu Quoc Special Zone, Vietnam, killing 15 Indians and injuring several others. The tragedy has plunged families in Andhra Pradesh into deep grief and triggered a swift diplomatic response.
Condition of the Injured Tourist
The injured passenger, Gelle Kishore, is under care at a government hospital in Vietnam. Official updates confirm his condition is steadily improving, and medical teams have described his recovery as “stable.” The Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in New Delhi has been in constant contact with his family, providing real‑time updates and logistical support.
Repatriation of Mortal Remains
The Embassy of India in Vietnam has finalized an authorized agency to handle the repatriation of the deceased. The agency is expected to contact bereaved families on July 12, 2026, to secure the necessary clearances for releasing and transporting the remains. Once paperwork is completed, the bodies will be moved to Ho Chi Minh City, then flown to India for final rites in their native towns.
Return of Surviving Tourists
The surviving tourists, rescued by the Vietnam Coast Guard Region 4 Command, are scheduled to fly back to India on the same day. Vietnam Airlines has arranged tickets from Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi, to various Indian destinations. This rapid repatriation aims to provide some solace to the affected families.
Government Coordination and Future Safeguards
Andhra Pradesh officials, the Indian Embassy, and the AP Bhavan are coordinating a crisis‑management cell that monitors the situation round‑the‑clock. Apart from consular assistance, they are offering financial and psychological aid to the victims’ families. The incident has also sparked calls for stricter maritime safety standards and tighter bilateral cooperation between India and Vietnam to prevent similar tragedies.