The Defence Ministry is planning to set up a naval battery with missile firing capabilities in Haldia, a senior official said in Kolkata on Wednesday.

The official told UNI that a survey in and around Haldia in East Midnapore district had already been carried out and the Ministry was holding talks with the West Bengal government for the proposed Naval battery.

He said the Navy had been considering a second battery with missile capabilities in Haldia in view of the growing importance of the Port, which could be an easy target of the enemy or the terrorists.

He, however, said that the Diamond Harbour battery would be in operation even after the setting up of a new battery in Haldia since Diamond Harbour was the entry point of the Kolkata port.

He said a missile firing system would be more effective in repulsing an attack or preventing an economic blockade.

"Till now, there is no naval presence in Haldia and matters are handled by the Coastal Guards alone. However, the Haldia port is gaining importance and deserves closer attention as the navigation channel towards Kolkata begins in Haldia," he said.