By IRNA
New Delhi : Nuclear-powered American aircraft carrier USS Nimitz docked near India's Chennai this morning, a top port official said.
The USS Pickney, which was expected to accompany Nimitz, has not yet arrived, PTI reported here.
The first batch of visitors from the ship is expected to arrive in the city by evening.
The docking of the Nimitz, powered by two nuclear plants and has over 65 fighter jets onboard comes amid opposition from environmental groups, Left parties, AIADMK and MDMK, citing fears of nuclear radiation.
Top officials onboard Nimitz and the US have sought to allay fears over possible radiation saying that the safety record of the 56-year-old ship was outstanding.
The Left parties have organized a protest outside the Chennai Port today evening