2 Indian Navy patrol boats sink after catching fire in dockyard

Two patrol boats belonging to Indian Navy Tuesday sank in sea waters after catching fire at naval dockyard in Mumbai city, official said.

No loss of life was reported in the incident.

The fire broke out early Tuesday in one of the security boats and spread to another boat adjacent to it.

"Soon after the fire, the duty staff took immediate steps to contain blaze and prevent it from spreading. However, during the firefighting operation, two boats suffered damage and submerged in shallow waters at the naval harbor."

According to officials, the boats were meant for patrolling in high sea.

India's state-run broadcaster All India Radio (AIR) quoting Defense spokesman said efforts were in progress to salvage the boats.

Reports said it took several hours for firefighters to douse the flames. Naval authorities meanwhile have ordered an inquiry into the incident. Endit