Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), the largest shipbuilding and maintenance facility in India, announced the Keel Laying ceremony of Marine Ambulance boats being built for the Department of Fisheries, Government of Kerala.
Mrs. J Mercykutty Amma, Minister of Fisheries, Government of Kerala did the honours in a function held at CSL.
The formal start of construction of the first of the series of three marine ambulance boats was carried out in the presence of senior officials from State Fisheries Department, BPCL and Indian Register of Shipping. The directors and employees of CSL were also present during the ceremony.
The Minister appreciated the fact that the technical capabilities of CSL that is normally utilized for large size Defence & Commercial sectors is now available for the service of the domestic & local segment as well.
These Ambulance Boats have an approximate length of 22.5 Mtr, beam size of about 6.0 Mtr and a maximum speed of 14 knots. The modern vessel, designed in-house by CSL will be of high quality and fuel efficient. CFD analysis and Model Test at IIT Chennai was done to optimize fuel efficiency and firming up the power requirement. 3-D Modelling of the entire boat has been done in-house to improve ergonomics and lay-out.
The vessel will be able to accommodate Two patients and will have a crew capacity of 7, including the paramedical staff. The vessel will also have various paramedical facilities like examination and nursing room, medical beds, mortuary freezer, refrigerator and medical lockers. There will be a Jason’s cradle to safely rescue people from sea.
Marine ambulances will be used for the rescue and instant treatment to the marine fishermen in distress as well as for normal patrolling. The vessels are due for delivery in early 2020.
