Vizag spruced up to host two big naval events
As many as 40 LED screens will be erected at various places in the city to enable people to enjoy the grand spectacle of colourful illumination of over 60 ships at anchorage, immaculate flypast by 50 naval aircraft and a parade during Presidential Fleet Review (PFR) being hosted by the Eastern Naval Command this month.
Visakhapatnam: As many as 40 LED screens will be erected at various places in the city to enable people to enjoy the grand spectacle of colourful illumination of over 60 ships at anchorage, immaculate flypast by 50 naval aircraft and a parade during Presidential Fleet Review (PFR) being hosted by the Eastern Naval Command this month.
While the PFR, held once during the tenure of the President of India, is scheduled on February 21, MILAN-a multilateral naval exercise, will take place from February 25 to March 4.
The exercises will be witnessed by a select group of naval and government officials and a few dignitaries. Due to significance attached to the two events, the security apparatus in and around the city has been heightened. It has been decided to barricade the beach road. Use of drone cameras has been prohibited.
After a review meeting, Chief Secretary Sameer Sharma directed the district officials to gear up all the arrangements on a top priority and showcase the city's culture to the dignitaries. The authorities have decided to be eco-friendly and use only organic products during the twin events.
Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation and Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority have undertaken an exercise along with the Navy, Visakhapatnam Port and other stakeholders to beautify the city. Bridges and flyovers as well as some pavements and walls are being painted to give a majestic look to the visitors to the city. Twenty hotels have been blocked to accommodate guests and officials.Visakhapatnam last hosted the International Fleet Review (IFR) in 2016. PFR was last hosted on February 13, 2006. The might of the Indian Navy will be on display at two prestigious events. According to a Naval spokesman, Naval Fleet Review is a long-standing tradition followed by navies all across commands. He said it is indeed a strong bond which links seafarers of the world. Historically, a Fleet Review is an assembly of ships at a pre-designated place for the purpose of displaying loyalty and allegiance to the sovereign and the State.
