CNN reported that six Russian tourists died Thursday after a submarine, taking an underwater tour near the Egyptian resort city of Hurghada.
The ship operated by the Sindbad submarine carries 45 passengers, including tourists from Russia, India, Norway and Sweden, as well as five Egyptian crew members. Major General Amr Hanafy confirmed that all non-Russian passengers have been rescued while four other tourists are still in critical condition and are being treated in the intensive care unit of the local hospital.
Russia’s Russian consulate in Hurghada reported that the submarine was about one kilometer from the coast at about 10 a.m.
The boat is on a scheduled underwater tour to observe the coral reefs. Most passengers were successfully evacuated and taken to nearby hotels and medical facilities. Authorities have begun an investigation into the incident, questioning the crew of the ship to determine the cause. The governor pointed out that the submarine has a valid operating license and the crew holds the necessary scientific certificates.
Video released by local authorities showed Hanafy visiting the hospital and talking to survivors, some wrapped in emergency blankets and others resting on hospital beds. The event occurred in stable weather conditions with clear skies, shallow winds and 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) at about 30 degrees Celsius. The wind speed is reportedly below 10 kph.
The Sindbad submarine, the company that operates the ship, promotes its expertise in the underwater tourism industry and claims its fleet is designed to withstand depth pressures up to 75 meters. Its website states that submarines carry oxygen masks, lifeguards and emergency safety equipment.
The company operates two submarines, each with 44 passengers and two pilots. CNN reported that the ships could descend to a depth of 25 meters for a 40-minute tour, allowing visitors to view coral reefs and marine life through large circular windows.
Egypt’s tourism industry remains a key component of the country’s economy. The incident happened after a sea accident in November when a yacht sank in the Red Sea amid a marine warning and at least 16 people were missing.
