Noodle disaster: Jet ski capsizes leaves trio in Chao Phraya River
Three young men riding jet skis to enjoy a bowl of noodles found themselves in peril when one of their jet skis capsized in the Chao Phraya River near Bangkok. The incident prompted a rescue operation but the men managed to return safely to shore near Nonthaburi Pier.
Volunteer officers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation yesterday, July 29, at 8pm, received a report of a jet ski accident in the Chao Phraya River near Phra Nang Klao Bridge in Bang Kraso, Mueang District, Nonthaburi. One person was reported missing in the strong currents, leading the foundation’s volunteers to coordinate with the Marine Department and the Nonthaburi Municipality to launch a search operation.
Initial information suggested that three young men on jet skis had stopped under Phra Nang Klao Bridge to eat noodles. After finishing their meal, they rode their jet skis towards Nonthaburi Pier. However, amidst the strong currents and continuous rain, one jet ski lost control and capsized, causing all three men to fall into the river. Two of them were able to stay afloat, while the third went missing, prompting an immediate call for help.
The Marine Department and Nonthaburi Municipality launched a patrol boat to search for the missing young man, covering areas in the middle of the river, Phra Nang Klao Pier, and Saimai Pier. Eventually, it was confirmed that the missing individual had been found.
While awaiting rescue, the two men who were floating in the water managed to grasp their jet ski and rode it in search of their missing friend. They located him adrift far from the capsizing point and promptly helped him onto the jet ski.
The trio then headed back to a docking area opposite Nonthaburi Pier. It is believed they fled to avoid potential issues with boating licenses from the Marine Department.
Distress call
Sutath, a volunteer officer from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, stated that they received a distress call about the capsized jet ski, reporting one person missing out of the three.
“We are unsure if alcohol was involved, but we know all three were wearing life jackets and assisted each other to safety.”
The search mission was called off after about an hour when villagers along the river confirmed that all three men were safe.
The identities of the three individuals remain unknown to the rescue team. The incident underscores the risks of riding jet skis in adverse weather conditions and highlights the importance of adhering to safety measures, including wearing life jackets and ensuring proper licensing, reported Sanook.
