(a) Whether the Government proposes to construct a new multi-purpose technology demonstration vessel `Sagar Nidhi;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the salient features of the Sagar Nidhi including the cost of the project; and
(d) the time by which the construction of vessel is likely to be completed ?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AND MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE DEPARTMENT OF OCEAN DEVELOPMENT ( SHRI KAPIL SIBAL)
(a) Yes, Sir.
(b) Government proposes to acquire a multipurpose vessel `Sagar Nidhi` for technology services and demonstration. The vessel would be useful for the programmes pertaining to ocean science and technology such as deep seabed mining, ocean energy, gas hydrates, and submersibles.
(c)&(d) The vessel is expected to have facilities for deep seabed coring, systems for launching Autonomous Underwater Vehicle(AUV)/Remotely Operated Vehicles(ROV), and submersibles, dynamic positioning system, low free board and low windage area, salvage and tow capability to assist in emergency situations, large deck space, containerized equipment handling for the science programmes, modular labs for science vans and containers. The present estimated cost of the new vessel is Rs. 231 crores. The vessel is likely to be delivered in June 2007.