Oxygen cylinder explodes onboard INS Nireekshak, diver loses leg

A Navy diver's leg had to be amputated while two other sailors were injured on Saturday after an oxygen cylinder exploded on INS Nireekshak.

The explosion took place while a diving bailout bottle, a small 12-inch oxygen bottle which is carried by divers in their diving helmet, was being charged, a Navy official said.

He said that such an incident has never happened in history of the Indian Navy. "The explosion happened while the crew was working on the deck of the ship," he said.

Right leg of the diver has been amputated from just above the knee. Two other sailors received splinter injuries in the stomach region and legs.

The report said that the injured are recuperating in the hospital and their condition is said to be stable.

The inquiry has been ordered into the incident.

(More details awaited)