By IANS
Chennai : India’s new multipurpose scientific vessel is ready for deployment and will be at the forefront of the country’s sea research.
Named Sagar Nidhi, it is parked off the east coast of Tamil Nadu. Sagar Nidhi will be dedicated to the nation after Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal returns from Australia, officials at a scientists’ meet here said.
It is expected to provide logistical support in India’s Antarctic II and Arctic missions, which are on the cards in the next five years.
It will have on-board housing facilities for nearly 40 scientists. The more than 100 m long, 20 m wide vessel is about 5 m deep and can achieve a speed of anything between 10 and 20 knots.
The ship will assist the department of science and technology and the ministry of earth sciences with technology services and demonstration in the government’s new initiatives in shallow water surveys, deep sea mining and ocean technology ventures like gas hydrate extraction technology development.
It has the capability to monitor remotely operated vehicles, autonomous underwater vehicles, support underwater observation systems and help with the maintenance of data buoys.
Among the latest instruments it carries is a dynamic positioning system, systems for launching remote controlled vehicles, hydraulic lifts, a low free board, 10-tonne cranes to repair data buoys in mid-sea, salvage and tow gear for emergency assistance, a helipad on board, ice strengthening gear, modular labs and science vans.