Two killed as INS Betwa slips while undocking

Mumbai/New Delhi, Dec 5: Two persons were killed and at least 14 others injured on Monday when Indian vy’s guided missile frigate INS Betwa slipped while undocking at the val Dockyard in Mumbai where it was undergoing a refit, an official spokesperson said. While one victim was reportedly inside the ship as it fell on its side, the other was in the waters below it. val divers continued to search for them.

Another 14 personnel were rescued from the site and their condition is reported to be stable. The incident occurred around 1.50 p.m. when the 126-metre-long, 3,800-tonne ship fell on its side, with the mast hitting the dockyard floor.

“There has been an incident in the Cruiser Graving Dock, val Dockyard Mumbai involving INS Betwa today (Monday).

“The incident occurred during undocking evolution wherein it is suspected that the dock block mechanism has failed,” said an Indian vy statement. vy officials said 14 personnel were rescued from the dock with minor injuries. “All personnel are stable. Diving in progress to look for two missing crew,” said an official. The extent of damage to the 3,800-tonne Brahmaputra-Class frigate, commissioned into the Indian vy in July 2004, is being assessed. (IANS)