Security beefed up in Vizag for 3 mega maritime events
Hallmark of events is to strengthen maritime cooperation, camaraderie, collaboration in various fields among friendly nations
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Visakhapatnam: A security blanket has been thrown over Visakhapatnam with the Indian Navy and the Andhra Pradesh Government making elaborate arrangements to host three mega maritime events during February 15 to 20 to showcase might of naval forces.
International Fleet Review (IFR) beginning Sunday will be attended by President of India Droupadi Murmu and several other VVIPs. Over 60 nations are deputing their teams including top officials for taking part in the events.
The main hallmark of the events is to strengthen maritime cooperation, camaraderie and collaboration in various fields among friendly nations. Several foreign ships have already anchored here.
In view of IFR and MILAN Exercise, the Airport Authority of India (AAI) has announced closure of airspace at Visakhapatnam International Airport (VTZ) during different time slots. It will be closed from 10.25 am to 12.30 pm, 4:pm to 5.30 pm, 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm during February 15 to 19. Flights will be rescheduled accordingly affecting eight arrivals and equal number of departures.
Airport officials have advised the passengers to keep updated on revised schedules by keeping in touch with the airlines concerned.
Besides IFR, Exercise MILAN and Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs--considered mega maritime events will be organised in Visakhapatnam. Central forces including NSG have been deployed at various strategic places. All star hotels and guest houses are blocked to lodge the delegates. The events will reiterate India's significance in the Eastern Seaboard & Indian Ocean Region. The events are hosted in alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for MAHASAGAR (Mutual Holistic & Advancement for Security & Growth Across Regions.
The events will be a major manifestation of the Security & Growth for All in the Region to across Regions (SAGAR) vision. India is keen to showcase it's potential as a preferred security region for all friendly nations, a senior naval official said.
The events will feature a Presidential Fleet Review at Sea by President of India, showcasing indigenous platforms including INS Vikrant (India's first domestically built aircraft carrier), Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, Nilgiri-class stealth frigates, and Arnala-class anti-submarine warfare corvettes—reflecting India's transformation into a 'Builder's Navy'.
The Indian Navy ships will be joined by a diverse congregation of ships from friendly foreign countries, the Indian Coast Guard and the Merchant Marines.
Exercise MILAN’s Sea and Harbour Phases will focus on interoperability, maritime domain awareness, anti-submarine warfare, air defence, and search-and-rescue operations.
