An in-depth investigative report prepared by an independent inquiry commission into Hong Kong's worst maritime disaster in decades was released on Tuesday. A commuter ferry, Sea Smooth, and a company boat owned by Hongkong Electric Company, Lamma IV, collided near Yung Shue Wan, Lamma Island on the evening of October 1 last year. Thirty-nine people were killed in the collision. It was reported that Sea Smooth crashed into Lamma IV at a 40 degree angle from the port side, causing it to sink within minutes.
The report also found flaws in the structure and safety provisions of Lamma IV, including a lack of children's life-jackets and a lack of a watertight door to the steering gear compartment, which allowed its rapid sinking. The seats on the upper deck were not bolted down to the deck which trapped many victims when water flooded in.
The inquiry commission recommended the city take various steps to enhance future passenger safety, including requiring regular eye exams for captains and sufficient life-jacket provisions.
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