Dozens Injured in Ferry/Barge Collision Off Hong Kong Island

Photo: Thirty-eight people were killed and scores injured when this ferry collided with a pleasure boat in October 2012 in Hong Kong.

A passenger ferry and barge collided off Hong Kong Island on Friday night, leaving 31 people injured.

Local police stated that those injured were transported to the dock immediately following the collision; 11 were reportedly hospitalized.

The ferry was bound for the island of Cheung Chau and did eventually reach its destination. Details about the status of the other vessel, thought to be a barge, were unclear.

Many have raised questions about the safety in one of the world's busiest harbors based on the amount of incidents that occur. Researchers say that while it remains one of the world's safest ports, increased vessel traffic and risks associated with land reclamation works along the harbor front call for urgent government attention, reports the Bangkok Post.