A tragic boat accident near the coast of Oman has left 19 Pakistani migrants missing, with only one man surviving the incident. The sole survivor, Hameedullah Khan, was rescued by a passing ship after the vessel caught fire.
According to reports, the boat was carrying 20 people when disaster struck on September 7. A gas cylinder on board exploded during a storm, setting the vessel ablaze. Despite the efforts to save those on board, only Hameedullah managed to survive, while the rest remain unaccounted for.
The ill-fated journey began in Gwadar, with the group attempting to reach Oman through Iran. Such dangerous routes are often taken by migrants seeking better opportunities abroad, but they come with serious risks, including unsafe boats, harsh weather, and lack of emergency support.
The Pakistani embassy in Oman has confirmed the incident and is currently providing assistance to Hameedullah Khan. Officials are arranging his repatriation so he can safely return to Pakistan.
Efforts are also being made to gather more details about the missing individuals and provide support to their families during this difficult time.
This tragedy highlights the dangers faced by migrants who risk their lives at sea in search of a better future. Many such journeys end in disaster due to poor safety measures and unpredictable conditions.
Authorities have once again urged people to avoid illegal sea travel, stressing the importance of safe and legal migration routes. The loss of so many lives serves as a painful reminder of the human cost behind unsafe migration attempts.
