`Cycle to stay ship-shape, and see ships well at IFR’

On security issue, part of the Arabian Sea which hugs the Gateway of India and the Naval Dockyard will witness the tightest ever security arrangements for the forthcoming International Fleet Review (IFR) in order to eliminate any potential of terrorist attack.

Vice Admiral Singh said that no fishing boats, trawlers and private sailing yatchs will not be allowed in the restricted sea zone for the IFR event in February.

“Memories of the fatal terrorist strike that sunk the American destroyer USS Cole last year are still fresh and we do not want any untoward incident to happen here,” said the vice admiral. On October 12 last year, USS Cole was attacked using an explosive laden country craft at the mouth of the Red Sea, killing 17 sailors and injuring 35 others aboard.

He added that 25 foreign warships from 19 countries will participate for the IFR. This also includes the French nuclear submarine `Perle’.

Asked why China had backed out at the last minute for the IFR, Singh reasoned that China will be sending their warships to India in May on a goodwill visit.

The first of the foreign warships arrived in Mumbai today from Mauritius. It’s a coast guard ship called CGS Vigilant.

Meanwhile, to build up tempo for IFR, popular website Contest2Win.com has announced a new contest in association with the Indian Navy. The lucky winner of this contest will get to meet the President of India and sail on the ship of the Presidential Review fleet during the IFR, hosted by the Indian Navy from February 15 to 20.

More than 75 ships, and 54 aircraft will be participating in the International Fleet Review.

Five runners-ups of the online contest will get to visit India’s sole aircraft carrier INS Viraat and an Indian naval submarine. Ten third prizes include special sounenirs designed by the Indian Navy to commemorate IFR, whose slogan is `Building Bridges of Friendship’.

Special emphasis is on the security of the water front off the mumbai harbour where the participant warships will be anchored for the grand show. Naval helicopters would maintain an eagle’s eye from the skies while the patrol boats of the navy and the coast guards will continue to maintain round the clock vigil, surfing along the 400 yards of the review anchorage area, leaving nothing to chance in view of the general security situation prevailing in the country in the wake of the cross border terrorism.