All occupants of a tourist boat In India had a fortunate escape after fire ripped through the vessel, completely destroying it.
Officials in Andhra Pradesh have opened an investigation into the blaze which happened as the boat was taking about 80 tourists to scenic spot Papikondalu on the Godavari river.
It is thought a gas leak from a stove caused the fire.
The boat skipper managed to edge the blazing boat to shore just in time for the passengers and crew to disembark.
Some were slightly injured as they clambered ashore in a panic
"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," a police official said.
Andhra Pradesh chief minister N. Chandrababu Naidu instructed local officials to fully investigate the cause and assist passengers, many of which lost belongings in the fire.
