JOIN USThick smoke on Sunday afternoon aboard INS Matang, an ocean-going tug undergoing repairs at the Naval Dockyard, sparked off fears and rumours of yet another major fire breaking out aboard an Indian sea vessel.
After repeated calls, naval a spokesperson confirmed the incident, but stated that around 3 pm, steel-welding repair carried out in the sewage treatment plant compartment of the ship by a private firm led to smouldering and emission of thick smoke.
“It was promptly detected by the duty personnel on site and the situation was brought under control by the ship's staff with assistance from the Naval Dockyard fire station,” said an official statement.
While an inquiry has been ordered into the incident, the Navy stated there was no injury to any personnel on board, nor was there any material damage.