Visakhapatnam:* The Centre for Indian Trade Unions (CITU) has urged Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) to undertake the construction of all five Fleet Support Vessels (FSVs) at its own facility.

The central government had awarded HSL a substantial Rs. 20,000 crore project to build these FSVs. 

However, CITU expressed concerns over HSL's decision to delegate the construction of two of these vessels to Larsen & Toubro (L&T) on a nomination basis.

Narasinga Rao, the CITU state secretary, alleged that this decision was influenced by political pressure. He emphasized that HSL possesses the requisite infrastructure, including a natural yard and dry docks, to complete the entire project independently. 

With a rich history of over 82 years, HSL has constructed more than 200 vessels of various types and stands as a leading shipbuilding hub in India, employing a highly skilled workforce.

Rao called on the central government to mandate that HSL handles the entire construction of all five FSVs.

He criticized HSL CMD Hemanth Khatri's decisions, warning that such actions could jeopardize the future of the shipyard.

Rao also pointed out that despite securing Rs 5,000 crore in bank loans two years ago to enhance Slip Way, no significant progress has been made by the HSL administration.

For More Updates: Follow Us https://www.instagram.com/hellovizag.in/