Torpedo Vessel sinking: Navy Chief calls for detailed investigation

Naval chief Admiral R.K. Dhowan on Monday called for a detailed investigation into the cause of the sinking of the Torpedo Recovery Vessel (TRV-72) of the Indian Navy last week.

"We would like to go into the detail and find out as to what were the drawbacks, what were the shortcomings with regard to any material failure or any maintenance issues. It's an aspect related to forced levels," said Dhowan.

Last week, one sailor was killed and four others went missing after TRV-72 of the Indian Navy sank in the Visakhapatnam coast during a naval exercise.

So far, out of the 28 who were on board at the time of the incident, 23 personnel have been recovered safely by the Indian naval ships.

Asserting that the incident was being taken very seriously, Admiral Dhowan said all possible efforts will be made to locate the missing crew.

"Search operations are still continuing, and as per the procedure they will continue for seven days. We will make all efforts to see whatever can be done to locate the crew. It is an unfortunate incident, and is being taken very seriously," he said.

"There was flooding in the compartments and the ship sank. The reason as to why the flooding could not be controlled is a cause for serious concern and it will be investigated thoroughly," he pointed out.

"The navy takes great pride in maintaining old platforms and off course since we cannot induct in platforms quickly we would like to optimally utilize every platform and see how the life can be extended and that is where the refits come in," said Dhowan.

He also said the TRV-72 had undergone a major refit last year and a short refit this year so they will now have to go into the details as to what kind of material failure took place which resulted in the uncontrollable sinking of the ship.