Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)
Mangaluru, May 14: ICGS Vikram, a patrol vessel that is first among the seven new generation patrol vessels proposed to be made in India for strengthening Coast Guard, visited New Mangalore Port here on Sunday May 13. The ship, on its maiden visit to the port here, was extended a warm welcome on behalf of Karnataka central division.
MLA Mohiuddin Bava, who received the vessel at the port, noted that with the addition of 'Vikram', Indian Coast Guard has gained in strength.
Commissioner of Income Tax, Narottam Mishra, noted that this patrol vessel has been manufactured in India using ultra modern technology under the government's 'Make in India' initiative. Expressing that he was going through a feeling of pride at the addition of this ship, Narottam noted that USA has reached a position of eminence and considered a super power because of the strong naval fleet it owns. "In the sector of ship building, India has been registering success in using its own technology, thereby improving its capacity," he stated.
Coast Guard commander, Satwant Singh, in his introductory address, explained about the unique features of patrol vessels. New Mangalore Port Trust chairman, Suresh C Shirvadkar, Coast Guard commandant, Gulwinder Singh, and others were present.
The new vessel, 'Vikram', which has joined Coast Guard, is equipped with latest arms to be able to launch attacks as and when necessary. It is 98 metres long and 15 metres wide. Its weight is 2100 tonnes. The vessel has the capacity to move at a speed of 24 nautical miles per hour with the capacity to carry a helicopter with two engines. 30 mm gun, and two ultra modern speed boats have been added to provide leading edge to this vessel. It is equipped with capacity to operate fire emergency system and automated power management system besides having the capacity of purifying sea water. The ship is operated by 14 officers, and 88 other staff. This ship was built by Larsen and Toubro company at Chennai yard and handed over to Coast Guard.