83 injured in Hong Kong ferry collision

A ferry sailing from Macao to Hong Kong hit an object in the waters near Lantau Island on Sunday, leaving 83 people injured, the local police said.

The vessel was said to have taken on water and lost power following the accident shortly before 7 p.m on Sunday, Xinhua reported.

Passengers described chaotic scenes as people stumbled around in the dark, some bleeding and others with injuries to their arms and legs.

Boats were sent to the scene, while ambulances were put on standby at the Central Ferry Piers.

After arriving in Hong Kong, some of those hurt were given oxygen masks while being taken to hospital.

 

The ferry, carrying 163 passengers and 11 crew members, was operated by Shun Tak China Travel Ship Management Limited.

--Indo-Aisan News Service

ahm/dg