A ferry operated by Tsui Wah Ferry slammed into a pier in Central on Friday, leaving more than 30 people with minor injuries and one person suffering more serious back and hand injuries, authorities said.
The ferry, which had departed from Tsim Sha Tsui and was transporting HK Electric workers to Lamma Island, crashed into Central Pier No. 9 around 7 a.m. as it was docking, according to fire and marine officials.
“There were 118 passengers and two crew members on board the vessel at the time,” said Assistant Divisional Officer Hung Shing-yau of the Fire Services Department. “The rescue operation was completed in around 20 minutes.”
Hung said the 34 injured passengers were taken to the hospital, with one person suffering more serious back and hand injuries.
Senior Marine Officer Cory Keung said an investigation is underway, but an initial inspection found the ferry was not seriously damaged, with no water intake or oil pollution detected.
“The last inspection was conducted in March this year and all was in good condition,” Keung told reporters.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, but officials do not believe it was due to any mechanical failure. Passengers described a sudden impact as the ferry struck the pier.
“It all happened so fast, we didn’t have any time to brace ourselves,” said one worker who was aboard the vessel. “I’m just grateful no one was killed.”
Authorities said the site of the collision has been cordoned off as they continue their probe into the incident.
