India's Coastal Research Vessels Set to Unlock Ocean Secrets

India's Quest for Ocean Knowledge: The Coastal Research Vessels Project

In a significant milestone for India's ocean exploration capabilities, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd. has laid the keels for two Coastal Research Vessels (CRVs) for the Geological Survey of India (GSI). This project marks a major step towards Atmanirbharta, the government's vision for self-reliance, and the Make in India initiative.

The CRVs, measuring 64 meters in length and 13 meters in width, will be equipped with advanced capabilities for offshore geological mapping, mineral exploration, and ocean environment monitoring. These vessels will be powered by diesel-electric propulsion, with diesel generators driving the thrusters, enabling them to operate within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of India, in depths of 5-1,000 meters.

The CRVs will feature modern, well-equipped scientific laboratories on board for data processing and sample analysis. Each ship will have facilities for 35 personnel on board, with an endurance of 15 days and a top speed of 10 knots. The vessels will be fitted with Dynamic Positioning – 1 technology, enabling them to maintain precise positioning even in Sea State 3.

The order for these CRVs was placed on recognition of GRSE's proven excellence in the field of advanced specialized vessels. The shipyard has a rich history of delivering cutting-edge vessels, including the Ocean Research Vessel for the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) and the Acoustic Research Ship for the Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL).

The CRVs will play a pivotal role in augmenting India's offshore mineral exploration capabilities, supporting the country's vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat @2047. The project aligns seamlessly with the national vision of achieving comprehensive self-reliance in the mineral sector.

The keel-laying ceremony was attended by Smt. Varsha Ashok Aglawe, the first lady Director General of GSI, and Cmde PR Hari, IN(Retd), CMD, GRSE. The event marked a significant milestone in the shipbuilding process, as the vessel's principal structural elements began to take shape around the central keel.

GRSE has established itself as a designer and builder of specialized platforms, having delivered two series of Sandhayak Class of survey vessels to the Navy and the marine acoustic research ship INS Sagardhwani to NPOL in 1994. The shipyard has also received the Notification of Award (NOA) from Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) for the construction of four Platform Supply Vessels (PSVs).

The CRVs project is a testament to India's commitment to advancing its ocean exploration capabilities. With the completion of these vessels, India will be better equipped to unlock the secrets of its vast ocean territory, supporting the country's vision for self-reliance and economic growth.

Key Takeaways

• India's Coastal Research Vessels project marks a significant milestone in the country's ocean exploration capabilities.
• The CRVs will be equipped with advanced capabilities for offshore geological mapping, mineral exploration, and ocean environment monitoring.
• The vessels will be powered by diesel-electric propulsion and fitted with Dynamic Positioning – 1 technology.
• The project supports India's vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat @2047 and achieving comprehensive self-reliance in the mineral sector.
• GRSE has established itself as a designer and builder of specialized platforms, with a rich history of delivering cutting-edge vessels.