The Indian Navy has confirmed the recovery of the body of Leading Seaman Sitendra Singh, who went missing following a significant fire aboard INS Brahmaputra at Mumbai’s naval dockyard. The warship, which was severely damaged in the blaze, has been resting on its left side since the incident on Sunday evening.
Officials reported that the fire caused extensive damage to the vessel, tilting it heavily. Intensive diving operations were carried out to locate Singh, and his body was found on Wednesday.
Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi visited the naval dockyard on Tuesday to assess the situation and review the sequence of events leading up to the fire. Admiral Tripathi directed the Western Naval Command and Naval Headquarters to undertake immediate actions to make INS Brahmaputra seaworthy and combat-ready.
In a statement, the Navy indicated that Admiral Tripathi was briefed on the measures taken to limit damage and plans for repairs to restore the ship’s functionality as soon as possible. The Chief of Naval Staff emphasized that all necessary actions to repair and prepare the ship for operational duties should commence immediately.
The Indian Navy extended its deepest condolences to Singh’s family, expressing solidarity and support during this time of grief. The Navy assured that it stands resolutely with the bereaved family.
INS Brahmaputra, a guided missile frigate commissioned into the Indian Navy in April 2000, is part of the indigenously built ‘Brahmaputra’ class. The nearly 3,600-tonne vessel is equipped with an array of advanced weaponry, including surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, medium-range guns, anti-submarine rockets, and state-of-the-art electronic warfare systems. The ship, measuring 125 meters in length and 14.4 meters in beam, is capable of speeds up to 30 knots.
Sources By Agencies