Submerged beneath the deep blue ocean for months on end, the unique and illusive vessel that is the submarine has captured the imagination of the world since its invention and subsequent use in warfare. It is said that the life on board a submarine is one that cannot be envisioned by those who have not experienced it firsthand. But now those who visit the decommissioned INS Kursura can lay claim to this once in a lifetime chance when they step on board the truly monolithic USSR made submarine docked on the shore of RK Beach in Visakhapatnam.
Having embarked on her maiden voyage in 1970, the 1969 commissioned vessel is said to have played a vital role in the Indian-Pakistani war in 71. Having travelled through 73,500 nautical miles in its 31 year lifespan the INS Kursura has had 13 commanding officers in its decades of service with Cdr. KM Sreedharan serving as its final officer in charge. A pioneering military vessel by any standards, the Kursura also participated in many a flag showing mission around the world as a goodwill ambassador for India and aided in spreading the countrys message of peace globally.
Having been converted in to a museum after being decommissioned the vessel opened its doors to the public in August, 2002. Attracting nearly 230,000 visitors each year it is estimated that over 1500000 people have toured the environs of this intriguing museum since its inception. Showcasing its entire arsenal of weapons the highlights within the venue include 22 potent torpedoes and 10 torpedo tubes. With 2000 horse power capabilities the INS Kursura also packs in three propellers which travel at speeds of nearly 16 nautical miles an hour. A sophisticated sonar system is also part of the submarines technical make up while visitors can also expect to get a behind the scenes look at the day to day lif of a submariner and the various compact spaces and machinery the marines deal with in their daily operations under the sea.
Visitors hoping to
travel to Andhra Pradesh should not forget to make a booking at the Gateway Hotel Beach Road Visakhapatnam which is ideal for both corporate and leisure travellers. Conveniently located within 6km of the train station and 16km from the airport it is one of the most advantageously positioned
Visakhapatnam hotels in the city.
