Coast Guard Ship Vigraha deployed in Eastern Seaboard

Visakhapatnam Indian Coast Guard Ship Vigraha, an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) has been deployed on the Eastern Seaboard with Visakhapatnam as the base port.

The ship which was commissioned at Chennai by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on August 28 was accorded a warm welcome on her arrival at base port here a few days ago.

The 98-meters OPV has been designed and built indigenously by Larsen & Toubro Ship Building Ltd. It is fitted with advanced technology, radars navigation and communication equipment, sensor and machinery capable of operating in tropical sea conditions.

The ship is designed to carry one twin engine helicopter and four high speed boats including two inflatable boats for boarding operation, Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement and Maritime Patrol. The ship is also capable of carrying pollution response equipment to contain oil spill at sea. The ship can attain a maximum speed of 23 knots and has an endurance of 5,000 nautical miles at economical speed. The sustenance and reach, coupled with the latest and modern equipment and system, provides her the capability to perform the role of a command platform.

According to a press release issued here on Friday, ICGS Vigraha has joined the ICG fleet of Eastern Region and will give a major fillip to Indian Coast Guard operations in the vast coastline of Eastern Seaboard. The ship shall be deployed in the Area of Responsibility of Eastern Region. On her maiden entry to base port Visakhapatnam, a welcome ceremony was organised which was graced by Deputy Inspector General Yoginder Dhaka, TM, District Commander (AP).

ICGS Vigraha has complement of 12 officers and 90 enrolled personnel. The ship is presently commanded by Commandant PN Anoop.