NEW DELHI, May 11 (Xinhua) -- A boat carrying some 80 tourists caught fire in Godavari river in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh Friday, police said.
Fortunately, all the tourists escaped with minor injuries in the incident.
"Some 80 tourists were on a river cruise to Papikondalu Hills in West Godavari district when the ferry suddenly caught fire near Veera Varapu Lanka minutes after leaving the pier," a police official said.
"With fire fast engulfing the boat, the tourists got panicked and started crying for help. However, the driver of boat showed presence of mind and managed to steer close to the bank and all the passengers jumped to safety," he said.
Those who sustained minor injuries in the incident have been taken to a local hospital for administration of first aid, the official said.
"We are lucky to be alive," local media quoted a tourist as saying.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed the administrative head of East Godavari district to provide all necessary help to the tourists.
Preliminary probe has indicated a short-circuit to be the cause behind the fire. "However, an investigation has been ordered by the government. We will book the boat's operator if any negligence is found on its part," the official added.
