Indian vy's new base commissioned in Porbandar

Porbandar,  May 10 : Adding to the val infrastructure along the coast, a new base of the Indian vy — INS Sardar Patel — was commissioned here on Saturday.According to a statement by the vy, this Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Gujarat and the headquarters of the val officer-in-charge (Gujarat, Diu and Daman) would also enhance the logistical support being provided to the Indian vy units deployed in the northern Arabian Sea, including along the Intertiol Maritime Boundary Line with Pakistan.”The events of 26/11 have added a new dimension to the coastal security construct, which has enhanced responsibility, and need for continued val presence in this area.”

The commissioning of INS Sardar Patel and augmentation of infrastructure and assets will provide the necessary impetus to meet this role,” the statement said.The base was commissioned by Gujarat Chief Minister Andiben Patel and Indian vy chief Admiral R.K. Dhowan.Vice Admiral S.P.S. Cheema, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western val Command, and other senior val officers were also present.”With high maritime component and considerable industrial infrastructure on the seafront, Gujarat is vulnerable from sea not only during hostilities but also during peacetime,” the statement said.”The base, located at a key position on the Gujarat coast, will eble the Indian vy to qualitatively augment its infrastructure and organisatiol effectiveness in the state, which would improve coordition and synergy with other maritime agencies of the government,” it said.Gujarat has a 1,600 km coastline interspersed with 43 ports. (IANS)