|
|
|
 CHAPTER I
Introduction
|
|
The Department of Ocean Development was created in July,1981 as a part of the Cabinet Secretariat directly under the charge of the Prime Minister. From March,1982 it became a separate Department. Department of Ocean Development has been functioning as a nodal Department for organising, coordinating and promoting ocean development activities in the country, in line with the Ocean Policy Statement of 1982. The salient features of the Policy Statement relate to:
* Need to map living resources, prepare an inventory of commercially exploitable fauna and to map and assess the availability of mineral resources from the deep sea.
* Optimum utilisation of living resources and seaweeds, exploitation of non-living resources such as hydrocarbons and heavy placer deposits, harnessing of renewable resources of ocean energy from the waves, temperature difference in water column, etc.
* Technological advances geared to the utilisation and preservation of the marine environment.
* Research and development in basic ocean sciences.
* Development of indigenous technology and setting up of infrastructure facilities and services to operate large sized fishing vessels.
* Development of technologies relating to instrumentation, diving systems, position fixing, materials development, oceanic data collecting devices, submersible etc.
* Broadening and strengthening of available infrastructure facilities.
Establishment of a centralised data system with appropriate mechanism for collection, collation and dissemination of ocean related information both from indigenous and foreign sources.
* Training of skilled manpower and creation of self-reliant technological base.
* Establishment of an integrated legal framework and commitment for its enforcement.
* Cooperation with both developed and developing countries.
The Department of Ocean Development functions in association with other concerned agencies. The major thrust areas of development pursued by the Department over the years relate to:
* Development of technologies relating to seabed mining, extractive metallurgy.
* Contribution towards front ranking research in polar sciences.
* Exploration of marine resources and their correlation with oceanographic parameters, studies to evolve exploration parameters and strategies.
* Development of technologies and infrastructure for exploration and sustainable utilisation of marine living and non-living resources.
* Developmental activities related to ocean integrated coastal and marine area management, coastal community development, ocean information services, etc., with direct application to the welfare of the society.
* Basic research in Ocean Science and Technology, Human Resource Management, creation of Centres of Excellence in academic institutions and public awareness on the potential and uses of ocean.
The underlying philosophy of the programmes and activities undertaken by the Department of Ocean Development is one of sustainable and environment friendly exploration and utilisation of marine living and non-living resources for the socio-economic benefit of the country.
ORGANISATIONAL SET-UP OF THE DEPARTMENT
The present strength of the Department, including administrative, technical and supporting staff is 246 in all grades, attached and subordinate offices included.
The Department has two attached offices viz. Antarctic Study Centre and Project Cell for implementation of Polymetallic Nodules Programme and Sagar Sampada Cell at Kochi and one subordinate office by name Andaman & Nicobar Centre for Ocean Development (ANCOD) at Port Blair. In addition, a Project Directorate for Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management (ICMAM) has been set up during 1997-98 at Chennai.
The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai, a registered society under the administrative control of and funded by the Department, functions as a technical arm for development of ocean related technology
The Research Advisory Committee and Technical Steering Committees identify the thrust areas of research and development and also approve specific projects for implementation. The Cruise Planning and Programmes Priority Committees for Ocean Development finalises and approve the cruise programmes for the research vessels. The Department utilises the resources and manpower from various agencies in the country for implementing the programmes in the Ocean sector.
MAJOR PROGRAMMES OF THE DEPARTMENT
The programmes of the Department which have been reoriented and revamped during the 9th Five Year Plan period cover:-
i) Polar ( Antarctic) Science
ii) Marine Living Resources
iii) Marine Non-Living Resources
iv) Ocean Observation & Information Services
v) Coastal and Marine Area Management
vi) Marine Research and Capacity Building
vii) Coastal Community Programmes including Island Development
viii) Ocean Awareness
ix) International Cooperation
While formulating the research and development programmes, stress is laid on benefits these will give to society, accelerated development of applied technology.
Intensive review and evaluation of the Antarctic research programme had let to revised priorities in scientific programmes taking into consideration the increasing importance and the relevance of Antarctic research in understanding the global climate and environment.
In the field of Polymetallic Nodules Programme, emphasis so far had been on the utilisation of the intermediate technologies in the survey and exploration and mining for immediate use in the Exclusive Economic Zone. However, in the recent years, the programme has been expanded to development of technologies for deep sea mining, recovery of metals, etc.
Priority is also being accorded to integrated coastal and marine area management, ocean observation and information services including use of satellite remote sensing for exploration and sustainable exploitation of the living and non-living resources, pollution monitoring, monitoring of climate change, sea level variations, etc., collection and dissemination of oceanographic and meteorological data on real-time basis, development of technologies for tapping ocean energy, coastal and environmental engineering, marine instrumentation and enhancement of marine living resources, and coastal community programmes such as Shore to Vessel Communication System, development of Integrated Global Positioning System navigator and Fish Finders, Island Development. Continued support is being provided to Universities and R&D Institutions for conducting basic and applied research in various disciplines related to ocean sciences and technology.
India is a Member of the Antarctic Treaty System with a consultative status, a Member in the Council of Managers of the National Antarctic Programme, Standing Committee on Antarctic Logistics and Operations, Commission on Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources, Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research and in the Council of International Seabed Authority under Investors category for survey/exploration and exploitation of polymetallic nodules from the Central Indian Ocean. In addition, India's nominees have also been elected members in various important institutions established under the UN Convention on Law of the Sea such as: International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, Legal and Technical Commission of the International Seabed Authority (ISBA), Finance Committee of ISBA, Commission on the Limits of Continental Shelf, etc.
|
|
CHAPTER II
Review of Overall Performance during 1996-97
|
|
ANTARCTIC RESEARCH PROGRAMME
The XVI Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica with 61 members sailed from Goa on 12th December, 1996. The summer component of the team returned in April, 1997 leaving behind 25 members to winter-over .
During the course of XVI Expedition, scientific experiments in various fields of polar science, viz., Earth Sciences & Glaciology; Atmospheric Sciences & Meteorology; Biology & Environmental Sciences; Human Physiology & Medicine; and Communication & Engineering sciences were undertaken.
The major scientific & logistic accomplishments of the expedition were as follows:
* Charting of ozone and other trace gasses in the Antarctic atmosphere using state of art instruments like mm wave Radio-spectrometer and Laser Heterodyne System.
* Collection and archival of climatic data-set with the aim to provide inputs for climate modeling and monsoon prediction.
* Monitoring of magnetic currents using an array of fluxgate magnetometers and riometers.
* Planetary Boundary Layer studies for understanding the dynamics of lower atmosphere.
* Geological and geophysical investigations in the Schirmacher Oasis and the Orwin mountains.
* Studies on the lower forms of life in the various ecological units of Antarctica as a part of biodiversity programme.
* Experiments on human physiology to understand the behavioral patterns of human subjects exposed to harsh conditions and geomagnetic storms.
* Several new experiments were initiated on lake stratigraphy, floral biodiversity, snow-ice & albedo studies, aerosol & electrical conductivity studies and utilisation of wind energy.
* A major break through in high latitude communication was achieved through the commissioning of near real picture transmission link between India and Antarctica.
* Reorientation and augmentation of the land convoy support systems and creation of MI room facilities in the main station.
* Augmentation of the air support to the expedition with longer endurance and payload carrying helicopters for conducting scientific experiments in remote field camps.
* Environmental restoration of Maitri and its surroundings by a special Environmental Task Force.
* India ratified the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty thereby upholding its commitment to protect the pristine nature of Antarctica.
* An MOU on cooperation in Polar science and logistics was signed between India and Peru.
* Construction of Phase I of the Antarctic Study Centre comprising of the logistic, administrative, service and residential blocks were under way.
* A sum of Rs. 20.85 crore was incurred as expenditure for Antarctic Research during 1996-97.
POLYMETALLIC NODULES PROGRAMME
The Polymetallic Nodules(PMN) Programme is a national programme with international commitments. The programme consists of three components: Survey& Exploration of polymetallic nodules in the Central Indian Ocean Basin(CIOB) including Environmental Impact Assessment Study(EIA), development of technologies for mining of nodules and extraction of metals. The programme is reviewed and guided by the PMN Board of Management.
The major achievement during 1996-97 are as follows:
Survey & Exploration
Survey & Exploration in the Central Indian Ocean Basin(CIOB) mine site was continued for revalidation of relative concentration and quality characteristic of nodules in different pre-determined blocks. The sampling at a grid interval of 12.5 km in the pioneer area has been completed. The data base has been updated on the basis of latest survey. A report recommending 10% additional relinquishment of the remaining pioneer area to the International seabed Authority was prepared & finalized on the basis of up to date bathymetric and sampling data. About 10.5 tones of nodules were collected for extractive metallurgy work.
EIA Study
Baseline time series oceanographic data was continued to be collected in the CIOB using three deep seabed seabed mooring systems. The baseline data collection activity has been commissioned with the help of Chartered Vessel. This activity is undertaken in collaboration with Central marine Geological & Geophysical Expedition a Russian Institute under MOU signed between Russian Federation Committee on Geology and use of Mineral Resources, Government of Federation on Co-operative in the field of Deep seabed Exploration & Mining . The possible sites( reference 7 test) were identified on the basis of baseline data in respect of sea floor bathymetry, sediment characteristics & geotechnical properties . The benthic disturbance activity as a part of EIA Programme was formulated to undertaken in March/April 1997 with specialised vessel fitted with special disturber.
Technology Development- Mining
As a stage wise development of the mining system, the of design and development of shallow bed crawler for sand mining and remotely operated vehicle(ROV) for inspection & maintenance was entrusted to Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute(CMERI), Durgapur. The design of crawler based collector system was completed. An upgraded version of ROV designed for 250 m water depth was fabricated by CMERI for testing at Idukki lake.
Design and development of multi-user systems for deep sea mining i.e. underwater communication system, robotics, underwater manipulator etc. initiated at NIOT, Chennai is progressing.
Possibility of joint collaborative efforts in the area of development of mining system in stages with IKS, University of Siegen, Germany was explored.
Technology Development- Extractive Metallurgy
Pilot plant campaigns in respect of roast reduction- ammoniacal leaching and sulfur dioxide- ammoniac leach routes and supportive experiments in the leaching and solvent extraction, were carried out through the National Metallurgical laboratory, Jamshedpur and Regional Research Laboratory, Bhubneswar.
Acid leach-pressure leach route laboratory scale experiment were carried out with 5 litre autoclave at Hindustan Zinc Limited, Udaipur. Cobalt-nickel sulphide solution generated at RRL(B) was sent to Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai for extraction of metal values as a part of downstream solvent extraction and electrowiring process.
After evaluating the data generated at NML(J) and RRL(B), Standing Committee of experts has selected the RRL(B) process route for continuous demonstration plant of 500kg/day capacity to be set up at HZL(U).
The expenditure incurred during 1996-97, for implementation of the programmes under various components of PMN was Rs. 8.91 crore.
EXPLORATION AND ASSESSMENT OF LIVING AND NON-LIVING RESOURCES
The Oceanographic Research Vessel Sagar Kanya is fitted with highly sophisticated instruments and fully capable for research work in the field of Physical, Chemical and Biological Oceanography, Meteorology, Marine Geology etc. Its objective is to survey, assess and explore the non-living resources available in our E.E.Z. During the year 1996-97, Sagar Kanya completed 12 cruises. FORV Sagar Sampada completed 11 cruises . For maintenance and operation of these two vessels, cruise management etc., a sum of Rs. 17.67 crore was incurred as non-plan expenditure during this year.
MARINE SATELLITE INFORMATION SERVICE (MARSIS)
The main objectives of the MARSIS programme include:
* Synthesizing Ocean and coastal remote sensing and generate and disseminate coastal and ocean data products like sea surface temperature (SST), Potential Fishing Zones (PFZ) advisories and other ocean features, like waves, upwelling zones, oceanic eddy information, chlorophyll and suspended sediment loads etc.
* Manage the Marine Data Centres (MDCs) set up under National Ocean Information Service (NOIS) and Marine Satellite Information Service (MARSIS) centres set up under MARSIS. * Undertake and organise validation campaigns for ocean satellite sensors and collection of sea truth data
* Undertake experimental ocean state forecast
* Undertake surveys and assess user demands, specifications of the Ocean Information Service costing, marketing and marketing strategies
The major accomplishments during 1996-97, under this programme include:
* Generation of PFZ advisories and dissemination to over 170 fish landing centers, twice a week except during monsoon season.
* Completed coastal wet-land maps for the entire country.
* Completed shore-line change mapping of the entire coastal stretch of the country.
* An empirical model for retrieval of surface winds developed using past ERS-1 data
* Methodology for water vapour retrieval from Along Trace Scanning Radiometer (ATSR) developed.
* A first generation model for estimation of Mixed Layer Depth from wind stress and ocean surface parameters developed. * Sea truth data for satellite data validation was collected. Deployed 9 low cost drifters and 4 multiparameter drifters. Conducted 3 special ORV Sagar Kanya cruises for validation of IRS-P3 Modular Opto-electric Scanner (MOS) data.
* Under `Ocean modeling' project, a basin scale model for Arabian sea is being attempted using the Modular Ocean Model (MOM). Preliminary studies on Modeling of air-sea interaction.
* Coastal zone data base for Tamil Nadu was completed. For the remaining states, data were being collected and archived. Coastal Zone Information System (CZIS) for Rameswaram Taluk in T.N., Mahanadi Estuary Mangroves and Chilka lagoon was completed.
Sea Level Monitoring and Modeling (SELMAM)
* Completed Tide Gauge cabin construction at all the 10 SELMAM Tide gauge stations.
* Installation of Float Digital Tide gauges at SELMAM Tide gauge stations.
* Under the modeling project `Sea level variability in the coastal regions of India' analysis of tidal data was continued.
* Copies of the Coastal area maps for the stretch from Nellore to Machilipatnam were prepared for supply to user agencies.
National Data Buoy Programme
Approval of Govt. of India for the establishment of the Data Buoy System was obtained. An agreement has been signed between the Department and M/S. Oceanor for the supply of National Data Buoy System. The Department has also obtained approval of NORAD for partial financial assistance to the Data Buoy programme.
The total expenditure incurred under the MARSIS programme during 1996-97 was Rs. 4.03 crore.
COASTAL OCEAN MONITORING & PREDICTION SYSTEMS (COMAPS)
The major objectives of this programme are:
* Systematic collection of data on pollutants such as heavy metals and pesticide residues in water, sediment and biological organisms at 77 stations along the coastline of the country.
* Development of methodologies for the evaluation of assimilative capacities of coastal marine areas for contaminant reduction.
* Development of models for predicting the dynamics of the pollutants and their ultimate fate using the data generated.
The major achievements during 1996-97 inter alia include:
* Data on 25 pollution parameters including dissolved oxygen, Biochemical Oxygen Demand, nutrients, heavy metals pesticide residues and pathogenic bacteria was collected at 77 locations to determine the trend of increase or decrease of pollution. As a result of the systematic monitoring of the coastal areas, health of our seas could be assessed and areas of low, medium and high concentrations of pollutants could be identified. The areas of high concentration of pollutants are being monitored intensively. Details of these locations are:
- Areas of clean sea water quality: The sea coast beyond 2 Km along the coastline of India except off Bombay is clean and conform to quality of clean waters. Here the levels of dissolved oxygen and other parameters fulfill the requirements of clean sea water.
- Areas of low concentration of pollutants: In Bedi, Vadinar and Kandla of Gujarat, Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, Mandavi and Zuari in Goa, Mangalore Port in Karnataka, Cannanore and Calicut in Kerala, Cuddalore in Tamil Nadu and the West Bengal coast, the concentrations of dissolved oxygen was fairly good and other toxic elements like ammonia, heavy metals in sediments and biota were slightly higher (about 15%) than the clean waters and hence they have been classified as areas of low concentration of pollutants.
- Areas of Moderate Concentration of Pollutants: In Porbandar, Damanganga estuary, and Vapi industrial estate in Gujarat, Thana Creek in Maharashtra, Mangalore coast in Karnataka, Kochi backwaters, Alleppey, Kayamkuylam, Quilon, Paravur and Veli in Kerala and Tuticorin and Arumuganeri in Tamil Nadu, the levels of dissolved oxygen were moderate to normal and however some of the elements like ammonia, pathogenic bacteria in sea water and heavy metals in sediments showed higher concentration (about 25%) than the normal values. Hence these areas have classified as regions of moderate concentrations of pollutants.
- Areas where concentration of Pollutants may become high in near future: In Veraval Port, Hazira and Tapi estuary in Gujarat, Versova Creek, Mahim Bay and Thane Creek in Maharashtra , Madras Harbour and Ennore Estuary in Tamil Nadu, Visakhapatnam Harbour and Kakinada Bay in Andhra Pradesh, and Puri in Orissa., the concentrations of dissolved oxygen were nil to low during low tide period and improved their levels only moderately (30-50%) during the high tide period. Further, the levels of toxic metals like cadmium and lead were high in sediments in some locations (like Thane creek). If no control measures are exercised now, the areas will become regions of high concentrations of pollution in the another 5 to 6 years.
- Regular inter-laboratory exercises were conducted to check the quality of data being generated by the COMAPS institutions and it has been found that most of the institutions produced acceptable quality of data.
- The mathematical model, to study the flow pattern of pollutants in Thane Creek was completed.
- Strengthened infrastructure facilities of all the COMAPS units.
- The actual expenditure for this programme was Rs. 1.61 crore.
COASTAL RESEARCH VESSELS
In order to strengthen the marine pollution monitoring (COMAPS) along the coastal waters of the country and to promote research on near shore phenomena i.e. coastal circulation, two Coastal Research Vessels Sagar Paschimi and Sagar Purvi are being used for sampling at desired location of the transect identified for potential hot spot and regular monitoring of marine pollution.
The expenditure under this programme was Rs. 3.08 crore.
MARINE RESEARCH AND MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT
The objectives include:
* To encourage research on physical and chemical processes that govern the seas of India, impact of natural anthropogenic sources on global climate change. Generate reliable data and information system for development of suitable technologies for optimal utilisation of the ocean resources
* To strengthen the Infra-structure facilities in selected universities/institutes to carry out basic research in Marine Sciences.
* To create centres of excellence on ocean sciences at selected institutes/universities
* To create a code of high class ocean scientists and trained personnel/users.
* To create awareness among the school children, public and coastal community on the usefulness of ocean resources and create scientific among the people on ocean science.
During 1996-97 the following were the major accomplishments :
* Assistance was provided to Andhra University, Visakhapatnam for opening a post-graduate course in M.Sc. on Coastal Aquaculture and Marine Biotechnology, and PG diploma course in Coastal Aquaculture and Coastal Zone Management.
* Oceanographic information was disseminated through publication of popular science Monographs (English, Telugu, Hindi and Tamil) covering the various aspects of oceanographic development with particular reference to Indian achievements.
* Mathematical models were developed for tidal current and residual current circulation in estuarine (Hoogly), salinity intrusion associated with the astronomical tides and storm surges.
* 21 New Fellowships were awarded.
* 6 new Marine Research projects were sponsored.
* 32 seminars, symposia, etc. were sponsored.
* An expenditure of Rs. 0.99 crore was incurred.
ISLAND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME
Under this programme, activities relating to augmentation of living resources through brackishwater aquaculture, marine ecology of islands etc. are being taken up. The achievements made during 1996-97 were as follows:
* Continuation of the project relating to rejuvenation of corals in A & N Islands.
* Creation of regular manpower for Andaman & Nicobar Centre for Ocean Development (ANCOD).
* Continuation of project on shrimp culture in acid sulphate soil for perfection and dissemination of the technology to the Islanders.
* An expenditure of Rs. 0.05 crore was incurred.
MARINE INSTRUMENTATION AND SYSTEMS
The main objectives are:
* Establishment of a communication link between fishermen out at Sea and the shore.
* Development of integrated global positioning system navigator and fish finder for locating the position of fishing vessels at sea and the Potential Fishing grounds. Performance under this programme during 1996-97 was as follows:
* An agreement was signed between DOD and M/s Punwire, Chandigarh for setting up shore stations at 10 locations in the States of West Bengal, Orissa, Maharashtra and North Goa and the Union Territories of Pondicherry, Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.
* The Integrated GPS-cum-Fish Finder technology was transferred to M/s Aerospace Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore and M/s Bharat Electronics Ltd., Bangalore for fabrication of 100 units. Two model units were developed and taken up for environmental tests.
* A sum of Rs. 0.80 crore was spent.
DRUGS FROM SEA
The performance under this programme during 1996-97 includes:
* Continuation of the next sequential step for drug development from marine organisms under Phase-III of the Project.
* Repeat collection of the specimens possessing promising biological activity.
* Further evaluation of five organisms possessing anti-viral, anti-amoebic, anti-diabetic, anti- anxiolytic and larvicidal activities.
* Development of suitable models for biological evaluation in already identified areas besides, anti- aging, anti-obesity, anti-AIDs, anti-cancer and anti-implantation activities.
* Initiation of regulatory pharmacology and toxicology of one or two extracts by modern approach.
* An expenditure of Rs. 2.00 crore was incurred.
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF OCEAN TECHNOLOGY
Purchase of 50 acres of land at Narayanapuram, Pallikaranai Village from Govt. of Tamil Nadu was finalised and part payment of Rs.100 lakhs against full value of Rs.210 lakhs agreed upon was maid.
Mission Programmes:
Mission I - Ocean Energy
There was a two pronged approach to the development of wave energy at NIOT. The first set of activities catered to the commissioning of the twin tapered chord Wells turbine-Slip ring induction generator at the Wave Energy plant at Vizhinjam. This was done in April 1996. Subsequently the performance of the plant as a whole including sub-systems such as the oscillating water column, turbine and generator was analysed. The results were reviewed by a technical committee in August 1996. Further improvements were suggested in the tunbine configuration. An impulse turbine with self pitched guide vanes was developed and orders were issued for fabrication in lieu of the Wells turbine. The major components that go into the turbine viz., the rotor, stator and guide vanes were ready at the manufacturers works by February 1997.
In parallel, efforts were directed towards the theoretical understanding and improvements in subsystems of the wave energy plant by sponsoring a number of projects at IIT Madras. The summary of activities in these projects are as follows:
a) Development of dynamometer set up for simulation of wave energy turbine.
b) Performance monitoring of wave energy plant at Vizhinjam including data acquisition systems for electrical power, torque, speed, vibration.
c) Development for controllers to improve parameters such as average power from the waver energy plant.
d) Development of a brushless induction generator for wave energy applications
e) Measurement of duct losses in oscillatory flow.
Mission II - Deep Sea Technology and Ocean Mining
Under this mission, major projects taken up were to suport the technology development activities of the PMN programme of DOD.
Shallow Water Mining: NIOT coordinated the EIA studies relating to shallow water mining at Chavara near Quilon. The necessary baseline data measurements during the predredging period was completed with the co-operation of NIO, RC, Cochin, Cochin University of Science and Technology and CMFRI, Cochin.
Slurry Pump Test Facility: NIOT also supported the design and erection of slurry pump test rig under the scheme of augmentation of facilities at IIT Madras. The test rig can be used for performance evaluation of jet pumps for deep sea slurry pumping applications. The design of the test rig was completed and components were under procurement.
Underwater Manipulator: NIOT has also undertaken the design and development of underwater manipulator arm suitable for collecting samples, pickup objects etc. This will be mounted on the ROV being developed by DOD at CMERI, Durgapur. The preliminary design specifications of control circuit and the mechanical components were completed.
Remotely Operable Vehicle: NIOT was coordinating with CMFRI who is developing the ROV for providing ship/platform for carrying out sea trails of ROV to assess its performance.
Mission III - Coastal and Environmental Engineering
Activities under this mission are grouped under three heads viz. (i) Coastal Processes, (ii) Coastal Engineering and (iii) Coastal Environment.
Coastal Processes: Modelling of near shore wave transformation, Storm surges and consequent inundation of coastal belt and Sediment transport are the three tasks which were initiated.
* A finite element model based on the elliptic mild slope equation for the transformation of waves as they approach the shore from deep water was completed. The model accounts for wave refraction, waver reflection, diffraction, breaking and sea bed friction. The model is being tested with cases reported in the literature. Comprehensive theoretical and user manual are being prepared.
* Considering the complex nature of storm surge modeling, the activity has been divided into a number of sub-activities each being handled by a specialist group in IIT Delhi, IIT Madras and Anna University. These activities will be integrated into a single operational model.
* In order to help calibrate the sediment transport model developed as a part of erstwhile CODAPS programme, a field measurement program for waves, current and bathymetry along the Madras coast was undertaken and measurements over three seasons have been completed.
Coastal Engineering: Mathematical modelling of the behaviour of Detached breakwaters and Floating breakwaters were considered.
* While an elementary model on the design of detached breakwaters has already been completed, a more detailed numerical model is in progress.
* Laboratory model tests on floating breakwaters were undertaken with funding from a private sponsor (M/S Adani Port Limited, Ahmedabad) and the results are being used to verify the numerical model being developed in-house.
Coastal Environment:
* With the objective of determining the extent of aquaculture that the creeks can sustain without impairing the creek ecosystem and pond culture, a field measurement programme was initiated with the help of Andhra University and the same is in progress.
* A mathematical model for creek hydrology has been completed through IIT Madras. This dynamic model is capable of simulating tidal movements in a semi-enclosed water body as well as modeling of a conservative water quality parameter such as salinity.
* In addition to providing technical services to industries who approached NIOT on specialized problems, NIOT also conducted training programs for officials from Dredging Corporation of India on `Dredging Operations' and to Tamil Nadu Government officials on `Integrated Coastal Zone Management'.
Mission IV - Marine Instrumentation
Since the inception of NIOT, it is collaborating with several institutions on the development of marine instruments apart from related in-house activities. The achievements are as follows. Development of Acoustic Tide Gauge: The design of the ATG has been completed incorporating some improvements over the state of the art Acoustic Tide Gauges available in the market. A flexural plate Transducer has been designed and fabricated in collaboration with M/s.Sensor Technology Ltd., Canada. The necessary electronic circuitry such as amplifiers, filters etc. necessary for laboratory studies have been developed in-house.
Development of Acoustic Sub-bottom Profiler: A set of specifications to acquire a commercially available acoustic sub-bottom profiler for coastal area application was arrived at after studying the feedback from various national laboratories and other agencies. Two engineers were trained for the operation and maintenance of the system and conducted the FAT between 23-27th September, 1996. The installation and the field trail of X Star Chirp acoustic sub-bottom profiler for operational performance are planned to be carried out between 17- 19th February, 1997 with help of Hydrographic survey department of Chennai Port Trust.
Development of Remotely Operable Surface Skimming (ROSS) platform: All the parts required for construction of the ROSS have been acquired and tested in the laboratory. The full scale hull module is also ready. The module is being tested for its hydrodynamic properties. A joystick controller and a GPS card for finding out the position of the platform has been acquired and is being integrated into the system.
Development of current profiler: A project is sanctioned to develop a 3 component 5 stage velocity meter and wave height and direction sensor for coastal region to OEC, IIT, Chennai. Design of 5 level probe is in progress and will be completed by August 1996. The electronic circuitry for velocity measurements using strain gauges is being fabricated. Development of software for data acquisition and data reduction has been completed.
Development of wave measuring buoy: A scale model of the buoy has been tested in the wave tank of OEC, IIT, Chennai. Software for data transmission, reception and analysis is being developed. Software for data interpretation from strap-down accelerometers is being checked.
INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS & CO-OPERATION PROGRAMMES
During 1996-97 also contribution to International Organisations/Bodies such as CCAMLR and COMNAP/SCALOP were made.
Delineation of Outer Limits of Continental Shelf
Based on the various expert group recommendations, the broad planning and formulation of the programme on Delineation of Outer Limits of Continental Shelf were carried out. The programme mainly involves acquisition of Baseline data, Bathymetric data and Seismic data and data processing. The programme envisages the participation of various institutions viz. National Hydrographic Office(NHO), National Institute of Oceanography(NIO), Oil and Natural Gas Commission(ONGC), Geological Survey of India(GSI), Survey of India(SOI).
Following activities were carried out during 1996-97 :
1. Ascertaining the available data with ONGC and NIO
2. Identification of the Survey Blocks Off West Coast and East Coast of India alongwith the Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar islands.
3. A sum of Rs. 0.38 crore was paid as India's contribution to the International Organisations/Bodies
4. The elections to the Commission on the Limits of Continental Shelf were held in March 1997 and India was elected as a Member of the Commission.
INFORMATION AND AWARENESS
National Ocean Information System (NOIS)
Under this programme a network of National Marine Data Centres (MDC) has been established at 13 expert institutions to ensure storage, processing and dissemination of data and on various aspects relating to Ocean Science and Technology. The achievements made during 1996-97 are as under :
* Strengthening the infrastructure and activities of all the Marine Data Centres.
* Establishment of Micro Earth Stations to connect Marine Data Centres through the satellite based National Informatics Centre Network at all the MDCs.
* Finalisation of hardware and software requirements of the Marine Data Centres.
* Finalisation of data formats for data storage and retrieval at select Marine Data Centres.
* Flow of data to the user agencies.
* An expenditure of Rs. 0.38 crore was incurred.
Marine Aquaria, Oceanaria, Etc.
The marine environment in India habitats diverse flora and fauna. A number of endangered marine species like horseshoe crabs, olive ridley turtles and a few coral species of fish occur in the coastal and near shore waters. The species diversity in some of the areas like Andaman Islands, Gulf of Mannar, etc., is unique. As the marine organisms live deep in sea, it is hard to imagine the nature of marine life and its variety. One way of creating awareness among the people of the country about the marine life is by way of live display in aquaria. The advancement of submarine structural technology during the last few years has led to evolution of under-sea observation systems such as oceanaria, etc. This permits the viewer to see the living habitats of marine animals under the natural conditions. In order to have this facility in the country it is proposed to set up oceanarium in the private sector on Build, Own, Operate and Maintain (BOOM) basis. An agreement was signed for implementation of the oceanarium by the builder, M/s. Goa Theme Park Pvt. Ltd., with the Government of Goa. The operation of the Oceanarium is expected in two years.
A sum of Rs. 0.13 crore was incurred as expenditure during 1996-97 towards provision of technical expertise for construction of oceanarium in Goa.
|
|
CHAPTER III
Review of Overall Performance during 1997-98
|
|
POLAR SCIENCE ( ANTARCTIC RESEARCH) PROGRAMME
During the period under review, the XVII Indian Antarctic expedition with a team strength of 51 members was launched on 8 December, 1997 from the Antarctic Study Centre at Goa.
The scientific and logistic tasks envisaged to be undertaken during this expedition are as follows:
SCIENTIFIC
A. Atmospheric Sciences
(i) Vertical profiling of ozone and dynamics of ozone hole : The National Physical Laboratory will continue to measure the vertical profile of ozone and other minor trace gases in the atmosphere upto a height of 60 km using a Laser Heterodyne System (LHS).
(ii) Fluxgate magnetometer studies : This is an ongoing study to be continued by the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism, Bombay, and is aimed to understand the dynamics of mobile current systems in the Antarctic atmosphere. During the summer period, three fluxgate magnetometers and riometers will be operated at the three vertices of a triangle with the objective to obtain velocity of mobile auroral current systems that leave back geomagnetic pulsations. During the winter period, single station recording will be continued. Exchange of data with the Italian station 'Terra Nova' will be done in order to understand the conjugate phenomenon.
(iii) Climatological and meteorological studies: This is being pursued by India Meteorological Department since the first expedition with the aim to built up a Climatological data base of Antarctica on a decadenal scale. This information will be used to generate meteorological models to understand the patterns of Antarctic circulation in context to global and Indian weather systems. A permanent and continuous observatory for recording and transmitting weather parameters, reception of satellite cloud imagery and weather chart broadcast already exists and will be operational during the XVII Expedition. Regular ozonesonde ascents will also be carried out to monitor surface and near surface ozone conditions. Radiation budget studies will be supplemented by radiometersonde ascents.
(iv) VLF propagation studies: A new experiment will be initiated by scientist from the Barkatullah University, Bhopal on VLF radiowave propagation studies for mapping of electric fields using whistlers on a continuous basis from Antarctica. These whistlers are a powerful tool for exploring the ionosphere and magnetosphere interactions emanating from the outer space. The coordinated monitoring of VLF propagation has been recommended by the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) to be pursued by various countries in Antarctica as a part of an international campaign on solar terrestrial and astro-physical research.
B. Earth Sciences
(i) Geological mapping and Glaciological studies: These studies are to be continued by the Geological Survey of India (GSI). Geological mapping will be carried out to cover an unmapped areas in the Kurze and Holtedahl ranges of Orvin mountains during the XVII Expedition. Samples will be collected from Schirmacher hills for laboratory analysis in order to understand the petro- geochemical evolution particularly, in terms of the metamorphic history. Glaciological studies are aimed to decipher the ice dynamics through monitoring of Dakshin Gangotri polar ice front.
(ii) Geological evolution of Schirmacher Hills : This is a multifaceted study initiated by the Dept. of Geological Sciences, Jadavpur University in the XV Expedition. The aim of this ongoing project is to understand the evolution of the Schirmacher Oasis through the structural and petrologic signatures in the rocks. The pressure and temperature regime under which the litho-units were generated will be studied by investigating the grades and stages of metamorphism.
(iii) Snow drift and albedo studies : This is an ongoing study to be continued by Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE) for understanding the net energy exchange budget between the atmosphere and the variety of terrains encountered in Antarctica. The reflectivity of the snow cover surface i.e. the albedo will be measured through a number of experiments under different physical conditions. These studies are aimed to determine the dependence of snow albedo on snow surface parameters like age of snow, grain size and type of snow, cloud cover, solar elevation etc.
(iv) Teleseismic studies : Studies on seismic activity as recorded in Antarctica from the Indian station was initiated on an experimental basis during the previous expedition by the scientists from the National Geophysical Research Institute, Hyderabad. During the 17th expedition, a permanent digital broad band seismograph observatory will be established and linked with the international net work of seismic stations.
(v) Planetary geodetic studies: A permanent GPS Observatory will be established in Schirmacher Oasis under the SCAR GPS Epoch campaign for carrying out high precision geodetic work in Antarctica. A Turbo Rogue GPS receiver will be installed by NGRI as a part of the international GIANT project (Geodetic Infrastructure in Antarctica). The scientific goals of this project are : (a) to provide accurate positions in the Global Reference Frame, as also a fundamental frame for (relative) positioning in the operation area of each Antarctic expedition; (b) to study movements of the Antarctic plate in relation to other plates; and (c) to link of sea level changes and study of vertical motions.
The above project will be undertaken as a joint collaborative programme between India (NGRI & Survey of India) and the University of Dresden, Germany.
C. Environmental Sciences
Environmental impact assessment studies: With the ratification of the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty, it is necessary to carry out proper environmental impact assessment studies and generate baseline parameters of the surrounding environment in Antarctica. Accordingly, as a part of ongoing programme, a scientist from Banaras Hindu University (BHU) will participate in the XVII Expedition with the aim to monitor the status of air, noise, water, biological and land components in and around the areas of our operation. This study will also help to generate a waste management plan for Maitri and draw an environment evaluation/contingency plan.
D. Biological Sciences
(i) Bio-diversity of snowbank fungi : As a part of studies on bio-diversity of Antarctica, Botanical Survey of India (BSI) for the first time, will carry out a taxonomic survey of two classes of snowbank fungi, namely Ascomycetes and Basidiomycetes in the Schirmacher Oasis. A detailed study of their distribution pattern will be conducted in order to address :(a) Morpho-taxonomy and floristics of fungi; (b) Phytogeographical affinities vis-a-vis Indian occurrences; and (c) to ascertain the bio-potentials of fungi as producer of antibiotics.
(ii) Bio-diversity of moss inhabiting fauna : As a part of the ongoing studies on biodiversity of Antarctica, Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) will carry studies on identification of invertebrates, belonging to phylum Protozoa, Arthropoda and Nemathelminthes inhabiting terrestrial moss in the Schirmacher Oasis. This project while addressing the morpho-taxonomy of the above phylas of invertebrates will also help to generate the bio-geographical relationship in terms of the ecosystem.
(iii) Biodiversity and heavy metal contents in lichens : The National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) will conduct studies on the frequency, abundance, species diversity and density of lichens in the Schirmacher Oasis and Orwin mountains in Antarctica along with the determination of heavy metal contents in these organisms. The results of this study will be used as a comparison to earlier measurements taken by NBRI.
The above three experiments on bio-diversity will contribute to the international SCAR campaign on Biology of Terrestrial Antarctic Systems [BIOTAS].
(iv) Desiccation tolerance of cyanobacteria : This study to be conducted by BHU scientists has been designed to understand the floristic changes on the terrestrial habitats of certain sites and the state of soluble and structural proteins under desiccation of some cyanobacteria on Antarctic soils. The main objectives of this study is to analyse the qualitative and quantitative occurrence and distribution of cyanobacterial population at different sites as eco-indicators.
E. Medical Sciences
Human immune response studies : The National Institute of Immunology for the first time will be participating in the 17th expedition with the aim to study the effect of prolonged exposure to geophysical and environmental factors of Antarctic on human immune response system. The above study will be conducted in three phases namely, prior, during and after the expedition. A complete set of immunological parameters will be collected using standard medical tests on human subjects. The results obtained would be co-related with the complimentary ongoing studies of AIIMS on human physiology.
F. Engineering & Communication
(i) Structural engineering studies: Research and Development Engineering Establishment, Pune has been entrusted to undertake a study on condition monitoring of the structural components of the station under low temperature conditions. A novel aspect of these studies includes an on-line health monitoring of various infrastructure facilities through INTERNET. Data on insulation properties of various materials will also be collected along with regular monitoring of neutral voltage on supply line.
(ii) Communication technology: The Defence Electronics & Application Laboratory has been given the complete responsibility of maintenance and upgradation of the communication linkages from Maitri. This includes Maitri to India communication, Maitri to convoy communication and convoy to convoy communication using various modes. In addition, DEAL will carry out the experiments on: (a) Upgradation of data and voice communication between Maitri and India using high speed modems and computer interfacing; (b) HF propagation as a factor of ionospheric conditions and geomagnetic storms; and (c) improvement in transmission techniques of still picture frames.
(iii) Wind energy utilisation in Antarctica : The two year project on designing and fabricating a wind turbine system for Antarctica which was initiated by the National Aeronautical Laboratory (NAL) last year will be concluded in this expedition after a detailed energy audit is prepared and specific wind parameters are measured on a year round basis. Based on the data set collected NAL would provide the design concepts of suitable wind turbine system.
LOGISTICS
a) Establishment of a full-fledged MI room comprising of OT, examination room, x-ray and dark room, sterilization room, linen and medical store room in the 'A' block of the station.
b) Relaying of the water supply pipe line using trace coil heating system.
c) Construction of an underground vault for permanent seismic station at Maitri.
d) Upgradation and regular maintenance of land convoy vehicles and communication systems.
e) Upkeep of fire fighting equipment of Maitri and updating the serviceability of all fire fighting equipment.
f) Upkeep of station infrastructure and all life support systems as a part of regular maintenance task.
g) Upkeep and restoration of the natural habitat of Maitri and its surroundings complying with the environmental requirements.
Antarctic Study Centre
The construction of the Antarctic Study Centre (ASC), at Goa, which is designed to cater as the nodal Centre for all future scientific and logistic activities related to the Indian Antarctic expeditions progressed as per schedule. The phase I of the building comprising of logistic, administrative, residential and service blocks are nearing completion. The new premises has already been occupied and made functional. The launching ceremony of the 17th expedition was conducted from the new building.
MARINE NON-LIVING RESOURCES PROGRAMME
A. Polymetallic Nodules Programme
The following are the likely achievements under the Polymetallic Nodules Programme during 1997-98.
Survey & Exploration
* Spot sampling at a closer grid of 5 Km. in the identified blocks for trends of higher abundance and validating blockwise estimation.
* Spot photography of sampling stations
* Updating geostatistical resource evaluation based on closer grid sampling in selected blocks
* Relinquishment of additional 10% of Pioneer Area to the International Seabed Authority.
EIA Study
* Disturbance at the test site of the seabed by a specially designed mechanical disturbance to stimulate environmental disturbances as a part of Comprehensive EIA Study.
* Monitoring of impacts of disturbance in the test and reference site periodically.
Technology Development (Mining)
As a part of future strategy, it is proposed to establish a mining complex module with a capacity of 125 tones per day. The complex will have subsystems which can be upgraded. It is proposed to develop necessary technology, components, subsystems suitable for a working environment at a depth of 6000 m.
* Generation of detailed technical project report.
* Description, design & drawings (excluding fabrication drawings), specification and performance defination of all hardwares required to build a manganese nodule mining system along with infrastructure and facilities necessary for assembly, integration, testing for performance evaluation.
* Testing of ROV for upto 250 Mt. depth in sea environment.
* Design and development of multi user subsystems.
* Design and testing of materials for deep sea applications including designing of a hyperbaric facility and erosion prevention technology, and participation of NIOT, CMERI (MERADO), Chennai and industries
Technology Development (Extractive Metallurgy)
* Demonstration campaigns at NML (J), RRL (B) and HZL (U) to revalidate the data generated in earlier campaigns.
* Design of down stream solvent extraction facility at BARC for extraction of cobalt, nickel from the sulphate solution of RRL (B) .
* Campaigns with leach solution from RRL (B) and
* Design and development for 500 Kg/day. semi-continuous demonstration plant.
B. Benfan
The main objectives of the programmes which have been envisaged for implementation include:
* To generate high resolution climate change markers in the sediments of the Bay of Bengal and develop a dynamic model of sedimentary accumulation during glacial and inter glacial periods.
* To establish a technological package capable of delineation of active faults in the continental shelf off Andhra Pradesh and estimating their hazard potential.
* To define the kinemetic boundary between the Bay of Bengal lithosphere and the Andaman - Nicobar island arc.
During 1997-98 collection of long cores from various parts of fans was initiated.
MARINE LIVING RESOURCES
A. Drugs from the Sea
The likely achievements during 1997-98 include:
* Collection and identification of 200 new marine flora and fauna for chemical extraction and bio- evaluation.
* Continuation of the process of Biological evaluation of 6 organisms possessing anti-viral, anti- diabetic, anti-cholestrol, anti-anxiolytic, wound-healing and larvicidal activitites.
* Initiation of clinical trials of certain active extracts and their regulatory pharmacology and toxicology.
* Completion of the processes for evolving herbal drugs.
B. Assessment of Marine Living Resources
This is a multi-disciplinary and multi-institutional programme aimed at making an assessment of the marine living resources beyond 70 m depth within the Indian EEZ and correlating the fish abundance/availability with the oceanographic parameters, during the 9th Five Year Plan.
The major objectives of the programme inter alia are:
* To have a realistic and reliable information on the potential marine living resources in the Indian EEZ, for sustainiable development and management.
* To augment the sea food production and thereby the income of the coastal fishing community and the fishing industry.
This programme has been taken up for implementation from 1997-98 onwards. The likely achievements during 1997-98 are :
* Intiation of work relating to compilation of available information on marine living resources and Identification of theproject areas, institutions, man power etc.
OCEAN OBSERVATION & INFORMATION SERVICES
The Marine Satellite Information Service (MARSIS) programme which was implemented during 8th Plan has been revamped, restructured and integrated into an Ocean Observation and Information Services (OOIS), during the 9th Five Year Plan. This Programme has four components viz. Ocean Observation System, Ocean Information Services, Ocean Modeling and Dynamics and Satellite Oceanography.
The main objectives of this programme are :
* Synthesise Ocean and coastal remote sensing data with actual observed and measured data generate and disseminate coastal and ocean data and data products in the form of sea surface temperature (SST), Potential Fishing Zones (PFZ) advisories and other ocean features, like waves, upwelling zones, oceanic eddy information, chlorophyll and suspended sediment loads etc.
* Manage the Marine Data Centres (MDCs) set up under National Ocean Information Service (NOIS) and Marine Satellite Information Service (MARSIS) centres set up under MARSIS.
* Undertake and organise validation campaigns for ocean satellite sensors and collection of sea truth data
* Undertake experimental ocean state forecast
* Undertake surveys and assess user demands, specifications of the Ocean Information Service costing, marketing and marketing strategies
The likely achievements during 1997-98 include:
Ocean Observing System
* Commissioning of National Data Buoy Centre at National Institute of Ocean Technology, Chennai.
* Assembly and deployment of 12 data buoys at selected locations in the coastal/deep waters of India.
* Conducting training programme for technical staff of Data Buoy Centre for deployment, data management, and maintenance of the equipment.
* Sea truth and ground truth data collection for validation of satellite derived data will be strengthened by deployment of additional drifting buoys, current-meter arrays etc.
* Vertical profiling of temperature and salinity using expendable Bathythermographs and expendable CTDs.
* Setting up of a dedicated centre for near real time reception, analysis and dissemination of in-situ ocean data.
Ocean Information Service
* Continuation of operational services such as generation and dissemination of SST maps and PFZ advisories.
* PFZ advisories will be further refined by using additional parameters such as surface currents, chlorophyll etc.
* Generation of wind-vector maps, atlases on Mixed Layer Depth, heat budget etc.
* Strengthening of coastal zone information services.
* Service will be offered in the form of coastal wet land maps, shore-line change maps.
* Operation and Maintenance of Marine Data Centres established by the Department under MARSIS and NOIS.
Satellite Oceanography
* Capability to retrieve oceanic features such as eddies, heat budget, wind vector, waves etc. developed on a pilot scale will be validated and improved to make them operational
* Initiation of assimilation studies to integrate data from different sources to develop contemporary ocean models.
Ocean Dynamics & Modelling:
* Development of regional models on the dynamics of the Indian Ocean and defining the parameters that govern their short-term/long-term variability.
* Development of specific models that can provide 3 days to one week forecasts on ocean-state.
* Long-term changes in climate and the contribution of the oceans to these changes.
* Field programme of the Indian JGOFS was completed and results integrated and presented in the International Symposium of JGOFS held in Amsterdam during November, 1997.
* Under JGOFS programme the data collected are being integrated to estimate the carbon flux in the Arabian sea. Recognising the importance of JGOFS studies, the department is currently formulating a science plan for undertaking the JGOFS studies in the Bay of Bengal.
* A project for Land Ocean Interaction in the Coastal Zone (LOICZ-India) to assess the carbon fluxes in the selected regions of the coastal zones of India was taken up for implementation.
COASTAL AND MARINE AREA MANAGEMENT
A. Coastal Ocean Monitoring & Prediction Systems (COMAPS)
The threat of pollution to the marine environment is growing everyday with the growing use of sea for commerce. The ever increasing size and variety of pollutants and wastes reach the oceans through rivers and run offs from the land.
The deleterious effects of these wastes on coastal ecosystem cause the destruction of natural and environmental resources. The types and forms of substances that enter the sea include highly organic wastes of domestic, agricultural or industrial origin; toxic chemicals from mining and its operation; pesticides and inorganic chemicals; and oil from accidental spills and cleaning operations of tankers. To know the levels of various marine pollutants in the coastal and offshore waters and to assess the health of our seas, a programme on Coastal Ocean Monitoring and Prediction Systems (COMAPS) is under implementation since 1989. Data on 25 parameters are collected from 77 locations with the help of 11 institutions. Based on the data collected from 1991 to 1997, intensive monitoring of pollutants in 25 locations designated as hotspots is being done for 2-3 seasons a year.
i) Data on 25 pollution parameters was collected at 77 locations to determine the trend of increase or decrease of pollution.
ii) To ensure the quality data, being collected under the programme intercalibration exercises conducted by RRL, Trivandrum twice a year.
iii) As a result of monitoring of areas of low, medium and high concentrations of pollutants have been identified and the areas of high concentration of pollutants are being monitored intensively.
iv) Infrastructural facilities are strengthened in all the COMAPS units
v) The National Marine Data Centre on Marine Pollution at Regional Centre, National Institute of Oceanography, Bombay has been established to disseminate the information on status of marine pollution in the country.
vi) Pollution levels have been periodically brought to the notice of the concerned State Pollution Control Boards for remedial action.
The programme has been progressing as per the target set for the 9th Five Year Plan, both in physical and financial terms. The pollution trends in the areas of high concentration of pollutants will be assessed so as to document the increase or decrease in pollution-related problems.
B. Coastal Research Vessels
Two coastal Research Vessels, viz. Sagar Paschimi and Sagar Purvi have been deployed to facilitate systematic collection and analysis of sediment and biological samples from east and west coasts of India.
* Both these vessels have successfully completed 47 cruises.
* Sagar Purvi served as a testing platform for the Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) developed by Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute, Durgapur under Polymettalic Nodules Programme of Department of Ocean Development.
C. Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management (ICMAM)
The broad objectives of the ICMAM are:
* To acquire knowledge relating to advanced tools and techniques for an integrated Management of Coastal and Marine areas and development of expertise to use these tools to meet the present as well as future demands.
* To enhance the capabilities of concerned Government Departments both Central and State and National and State Institutions to deal with the various technical and management issues relating to the Integrated Management of Coastal and Marine environment through capacity building exercises like training, field exercises.
* Development of basic infrastructure and establish facilities to conduct survey, R&D and training on ICMAM related activities.
* To develop capabilities in the coastal States and UTs for adoption of ICMAM through training
* To create a base for human resource development in the fields of ICMAM.
* To ensure sustainable development and management of the ocean resources and enforcement of rules and regulations for regulation of ocean related activities in the ocean zone and make Indian oceans clean and productive.
The likely achievements under this programme during 1997-98 include: Establishment of a Project Directorate at Chennai and preparative works such as identification of various activities to be undertaken, preparation of Terms of Reference and other procedures as laid down by the World Bank for implementation of the scheme.
MARINE RESEARCH AND CAPACITY BUILDING
The objective of the programme is to provide support to the research projects and develop the specialised manpower in the field of oceanography and marine sciences.
The anticipated achievements during 1997-98 include:
* Continuation of Basic and applied research on physical, chemical and biological oceanography
* Facilities at some of the universities, National Research Laboratories, Centres, etc. upgraded.
* Front-ranking research in the field of coastal zone management, marine pollution, climatology, etc. encouraged in line with the need for sustainable development.
* 5 Ocean Science & Technology Cells(OSTC), are expected to be set up in five selected Universities located in the coastal states, in the field of marine coastal ecology of east and west coasts, marine geology and geophysics, marine microbiology and coastal marine culture systems.
* About 50 seminars expected to be provided financial support.
COASTAL COMMUNITY PROGRAMMES
A. Shore to Fishing Vessel Communication System and IFFNGS
The likely achievements during 1997-98 :
* Shore stations for Shore to Fishing Vessel Communication will be set up for providing two way communication to coastal fishermen living in the States of West Bengal, Orissa, Maharashtra, North Goa and the Union Territories of Andaman & Nicobar, Pondicherry and Lakshadweep.
* 100 units of Integrated Fish Finder cum Navigation Guidance System (IFFNGS) will be developed.
* Out of this 50 units of IFFNGS will be distributed to the fishermen for demonstrating the usefulness of these systems for locating fishing shoals and the position of fishing vessels in the sea.
B. Island Development Programme
Progress made during the year includes:
* Continuation of the ongoing programmes such as rejuvenation of coral reef, studies on the ecology and environmental aspects of the A & N waters.
* Completion of the project on shrimp culture.
* Initiation of a mission mode programme on Island Development under National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai by amalgamating the ANCOD and Andaman & Nicobar Shrimp Farm Research and Development Agency.
OCEAN AWARENESS
A. Exhibitions & Fairs
* Participated in 16 day long Science Exhibition (SOPAN) -Science Since Independance in New Delhi.
* Participation in Made in India Exhibition at Johannesburg, South Africa.
* Preparation of exhibits and models for Lisbon Expo, 1998 in Portugal.
* Technical assistance to the State Governments for establishing oceanaria/aquaria will be extended.
B. Marine Aquaria, Oceanaria, Etc.
To create awareness among the public on marine life it is proposed to establish an oceanarium at Goa on Build, Own, Operate and Maintain basis. With the Technical assistance of Department of Ocean Development, the agreement for its implementation has been signed between Government of Goa, who provides land area of 32,000 Sq.m. for the construction of Oceanarium complex at Miramar Beach, Goa, with the successful bidder, M/s Goa Theme Park, Pvt. Ltd., having financial and technical capability. It is estimated to cost Rs.50.00 crores with Rs.8.00 crores as recurring expenditure per annum, and expected to start functioning in December, 1998.
INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS & CO-OPERATION PROGRAMMES
A. Contribution to International Orgnisations:
India continued to contribute and participate in the International Seabed Authority, Antarctic Treaty consultative meetings, Commission on Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources, Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research, International Oceanographic Commission (JGOFS & GOOS) Programmes, Regional Seas Programme and Independent World Commission on Oceans.
B. Delineation of Outer Limits of Continental Shelf
In order to optimise the survey and data collection work, requantification of work is being carried out based on the data available with participating institutions.
a) The Baseline Survey has been initiated by National Hydrographic Office.
b) The Bathymetric Survey is proposed to be initiated in 1997-98. For this purpose the upgradation of the existing equipment is being carried out and test cruises are planned in the current financial year. One test cruise for evaluation of the performance of the equipment -Hydrosweep is completed.
c) The continuous monitoring and review mechanism established with the constitution of (1)Steering Committee and (2) Standing Committees on Bathymetric Survey and Seismic Survey.
d) Indicative Foot of the Slope Map off East Coast and West Coast of India is being reconciled by the participating institutions viz. NHO and GSI which will form the basis for the proposed bathymetric survey.
Following activities are expected to be completed by the end of the year 1997-98:
* Reconciliation of data pertaining to Indicative Foot of the Slope Map
* Finalisation of the cruise tracks for (a)Bathymetric survey and (b) Seismic Survey
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF OCEAN TECHNOLOGY (NIOT) - AN AUTONOMOUS SOCIETY UNDER DOD.
Campus development
Construction Management Consultant (CMC) for planning the development of the campus in 50 acres of land at Narayanapuram, Pallikaranai Village has been selected. Awards of various works in the campus is in progress.
Mission Programmes:
Mission I - Ocean Energy
* The wave energy plant at Vizhinjam now features an impulse turbine with self pitched guide vanes.
* The power module retains the 55kW induction generator and control panel that was used for the previous version of the power module.
* The new turbine with self pitched guide blades was commissioned in April 1997. Several experiments have been performed on the plant in order to characterise its performance.
* A report based on the analysis has been submitted to the technical evaluation committee constituted by DOD in November 1997.
* Many of the sponsored projects initiated in 1996 were completed during this year.
* These include the measurement of duct losses in oscillatory flow, data acquisition systems for the Vizhinjam plant and the performance of controllers for the turbine.
Mission II - Deep Sea Technology and Ocean Mining
* Two new projects viz. "Development of underwater thrusters" and "Development of underwater connectors" were taken up for implementation. The main objective of the these programmes is to design and fabricate underwater thrusters and connectors indigenously. The thrusters are presently being imported for the ROV programme being funded by DOD at CMERI, Durgapur. The design of the thrusters consists of three major sub-components, i.e., the mechanical aspect, electrical aspect and the connectors. The mechanical aspects, including the shell and seals of the thruster would be designed and fabricated at CMERI whereas, the electrical aspects including motor and the control systems for the thruster would be designed and fabricated at PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore.
* The underwater connectors for the system would be designed by NIOT. CMERI, Durgapur will take up the fabrication of propeller of the thruster and integrate the whole system. The design will be completed during the current year. The development of underwater connectors have been taken up as an in-house project within NIOT to indigenise the connector requirement for underwater cables for transmitting power and signals from the mother ship to the ROV's. The design has been completed and prototype is under fabrication.
* The design of slurry pump test rig for developing jet pumps for deep sea slurry pump applications has been completed and the procurement of major components are over.
* The vrious drive motors of the underwater manipulator arm will be assembled and testing will be carried out.
Mission III - Coastal and Environmental Engineering
Activities under this mission are grouped under three heads viz. (i) Coastal Processes, (ii) Coastal Engineering and (iii) Coastal Environment.
Coastal Processes: Modelling of near shore wave transformation, Storm surges and consequent inundation of coastal belt and Sediment transport are the three tasks which are in progress.
* A finite element model based on the elliptic mild slope equation for the transformation of waves as they approach the shore from deep water was completed. The model has been test cases reported in the literature. Comprehensive theoretical and user manuals have been prepared. User friendly pre- and post- processors are being added.
* Regarding storm surge modelling, sub-activities like modelling air-sea interaction and storm surge modelling under given wind field are undergoing testing with respect to past data from meteorological centre. Digitisation of Andhra coastal belt topography is in progress. NIOT is continuously reviewing these activities and will be integrating them into a single operational model.
* The field measurement program along the Madras coast undertaken to help calibrate the sediment transport model is in progress and is expected to be completed before March, 1998.
Coastal Engineering: Mathematical modelling of the behavior of Detached breakwaters and Floating breakwaters are considered in this area.
* An advanced numerical model on the design of detached breakwaters has been completed.
* A three dimensional diffraction model for the design of floating breakwaters is nearing completion. Laboratory model tests on floating breakwaters conducted earlier are being used to verify the numerical model.
* Design of groins to minimise siltation of Cooum Mouth, Madras has been completed and a presentation has been made to the Tamil nadu government for implementation. Also, in order to avoid erosion along Pondicherry coast, design of a test groin section has been submitted to PWD, Pondicherry for implementation, monitoring and fine-tuning the final design.
* A study on shoreline changes along Madras coast using remote sensing data is in progress.
Coastal Environment:
* Collection of baseline data on aquaculture farms and nearby creeks has been completed through aproject to andhra University. Preparation of the final report is in progress.
* A mathematical model for creek hydrology has been completed through IIT Madras. This dynamic model is capable of simulating tidal movements in a semi-enclosed water body as well as modelling of a conservative water quality parameter such as salinity.
In addition to providing technical services to industries who approached NIOT on specialized problems, NIOT also conducted a short term course for officials from Dredging Corporation of India on `Dredging Operations'. NIOT also acquired state of the art software on coastal processes named MIKE-21 from Danish Hydraulic Institute and implemented a software on Geographical Information System (GIS) and the preparation of a database for coastal activities is in progress.
Mission IV - Marine Instrumentation
* Acoustic Tide Gauge: After extensive laboratory test and calibration, ATG was sent for field trails at Chennai Port Trust on 1st Nov.'97. Based on the feed back some minor changes in the software and hardware have been incorporated. The final results from the tide gauge are highly encouraging. Design of Acoustic Tide Gauge has been patented
* Acoustic Sub-bottom Profiler: ASP was brought to the lab and its electronic circuitry was studied. A detailed proposal for indeginisation of ASP has been prepared.
* Remotely Operable Surface Skimming (ROSS) platform: Individual sub-assemblies of ROSS have been designed, fabricated and tested. The work on integration of the sub-assemblies is currently underway.
* Development of Current Profiler: The development of prototype multi stage current profiler has been completed. A lab prototype was demonstrated in November '97. The project has been extended upto March '98 for ruggeddigidation of the electronics and also for preparing. The proposal on development of handhold current meter.
* Development of Wave Measuring Buoy: The deliverables of the project have been changed from directional measurements of the waves to water surface elevation as a functioning of time. (i.e.) from directional wave height and wave period to wave height and wave period alone due to severe technical difficulties in importing certain items. The laboratory prototype is expected to be ready by March '98.
* Relatively inexpensive instrument has been developed for the measurement of velocity Profile.
* A Consultancy work taken up to conduct geotechnical investigations on various bore hole samples relating to Ennore Coal Port in Tamil Nadu is completed.
NON-PLAN PROGRAMMES
EXPLORATION OF LIVING AND NON-LIVING RESOURCES USING FORV
SAGAR SAMPADA AND ORV SAGAR KANYA
The FORV Sagar Sampada completed 13 cruises relating to studies on relationship of chemical and biological oceanographic parameters and abundance of living resources in the Arabian Sea. Extensive training programmes on living resources also conducted on board.
ORV Sagar Kanya undertook 14 cruises in the fields of chemical, physical and geological oceanography. Air-sea interaction studies to understand the role of oceans in climate change were also undertaken.
|
|
CHAPTER IV
Activities/Targets for 1998-99
|
|
POLAR SCIENCE (ANTARCTIC RESEARCH) PROGRAMME
During the period 1998-99, the Eighteenth Indian Antarctic Expedition will be launched.
* The broad scientific and logistic activities planned to be undertaken are as follows:
* Continuation of studies on ozone, trace gases and aerosols of the Antarctic atmosphere using various state-of-the-art equipment.
* Archival of meteorological parameters that can be employed for climate modelling and prediction.
* In situ geological and air-borne geophysical investigations of the Central Droning Maudland area.
* Continuation of experiments on solar terrestrial phenomenon like optical aurora and geo-magnetic perturbations.
* Identification and taxonomic classification of micro and macro-organisms as a part of on-going biodiversity studies of Antarctica.
* Experiments on Antarctic ice moss studies in relation to snow drift patterns and snow albedo.
* Studies on adaptation techniques of human beings in adverse conditions to continue.
* Application and utilization of clean energy sources like wind and sun in Antarctica.
* Upgradation of communication facilities with special emphasis on real time picture transmission.
* Reorientation of waste discharge and handling facilities.
* Commissioning of the medical inspection room and creation of library-cum conference-cum- computer room at Maitri.
Antarctic Study Centre
The Phase I of the ASC at Goa, comprising logistic, administrative, service and residential blocks is expected to be fully functional. The data base repository, computer facilities, climate modelling laboratory, etc., are planned to be set up. All activities pertaining to the coordination, execution of the Antarctic expedition including the launching and receiving will be shifted to the Centre. Planning and construction of the Phase II of the Centre comprising scientific laboratories will be initiated.
Financial Requirements : Rs 18.50 crore.
MARINE NON-LIVING RESOURCES
During 1998-99 the activities would comprise :
A. Polymetallic Nodules Programme
Survey & Exploitation
* Spot sampling at 5 Km grid for higher trends of higher abundance.
* Spot photography at spot sampling stations.
* Updating geostatistical resource evaluation.
* Collection of bulk samples for metallurgical activity.
EIA Study
*Monitoring of impacts of disturbance in the test and reference site periodically
Technology Development (Mining)
* It is proposed to develop in a phased manner necessary technology components, subsystems and finally an integrated deep sea mining module to mine nodules from the Indian Mine Site at CIOB from water depth of 6000 meters.
* Basic engineering and specification of a mining complex module of 25,000 tonnes/year shall be generated. Simultaneously existing crawler with the German Collaborator shall be refurbished, necessary accessories integrated and demonstrate shall bed mining upto 500 mts depth in Indian waters.
Technology Development (Extractive Metallurgy)
* Setting up of a continuous demonstration plant of 500 kgs/day capacity for extraction of metals from nodules.
* The R&D activities to optimise the metal extraction efficiencies will be continued at Regional Research Laboratory, Bhubaneswar, RRL (B), National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur, NML (J), and Hindustan Zinc Limited, Udaipur, HZL (U). The following activities will be taken up ;
* Demonstration campaigns at RRL (B), NML (J), HZL (U) to validate the data obtained from earlier compaigns and for optimisation of process parameters.
* Design of down stream exactly at BARC for extraction of cobalt and nickel from the sulphate solution generated at RRL (B).
* Design and development of semi-continuous demonstration plant of 500 kg/day capacity to be established at HZL (U).
* Campaigns at RRL (B), for generation of leach solution.
Financial Requirements: Rs. 18.95 crore.
B. Hydromas:
* Reconnaissance geophysical surveys, heatflow data, water column studies and seabed sampling.
* Identifying the nature, chemistry and frequency of hydrothermal discharges with Andaman back- arc basin and relating it to the ongoing seafloar volcanism and deforestation.
* Developing a model for hydrothermal processes and metallogenesis.
Financial Requirements; Rs. 0.05 crore.
C. Bengal and Nicobar Fan (BENFAN):
* Geomorphology of the identified blocks/tracts by Hydrosweep survey.
* Sub-seabed configration of the bed forms from 10 to 200 metres isobath in front of east coast.
* Single and multichannel reflection seismic transacts and measurement across the Andaman & Nicobar forearc.
* Collection of long cores from various parts of fans.
* Micropalaenological studies on sediment core samples
* OBM measurement and seismographic observations.
* Size analysis and clay mineralogy, palynology of core samples.
* Radioactive and stable isotope measurements.
* Modelling of sedimentary and deep coastal process.
Financial Requirements: Rs. 0.05 crore.
MARINE LIVING RESOURCES
A. Drugs from Sea.
* Continuation of the next sequential step of development of Drugs from Marine organisms.
* Initiating simultaneous Phase I and II clinical trials for products under the traditional mode.
* Initiating regularly pharmacology and toxicology of the active extracts/products.
* Launch of at least one such drug is to be in commemoration of the International Year of Ocean, 1998 celebrations.
Financial Requirements: Rs. 2.50 crore.
B. Assessment of Marine Living Resources
* Compilation of available information on marine living resources, their distribution and their inter- relationship with oceangraphic parameters.
* Development of a systematic and standard methodology for carrying out resoruces survey in the Indian EEZ.
* Upgradation/augmentation of on-board and on-shore facilities with Sagar Sampada Cell, and FSI and the educational institutions.
Financial Requirements: Rs. 0.30 crore.
C. Mariculture
* Final shape will be given for setting up pilot projects in the respective disciplines with respect to:
* Identifying a expatriate consultant for seabass, lobster and marine ornamental finfish culture.
* Site selection and initiation of the process for creation of basic infrastructure breeding,rearing and culture of these spieces.
* Upgradation of R&D base in CMFRI, the States/UTs concerned and DOD.
* Work programme/schedule of breeding, rearing and culture of the aforesaid species.
Financial Requirements: Rs. 0.10 crore.
OCEAN OBSERVATION & INFORMATION SERVICES
Details of proposed activities during 1998-99 are :
A. Ocean Observing System
* Retrieve, store, archive, disseminate the tidal data and maintenance of Floating Type Digital Tide Gauges (FTDGs)
* Last of batch of procurement of 5 buoys and deployment of 4 buoys envisaged under the project will be carried out. Apart from periodical maintenance of buoys and sensors deployed in the first and second years, data dissemination will also be carried out. Data from all the 12 buoys are expected to be made available to end users from the third year onwards.
* Procurement of drifting buoys, Deployment of data acquisition, processing, quality control and archival, Validation of SST retrieval algorithm, preparation of 10 day averaged 1x1c surface velocity climatology
* Procurement of components and fabrication of arrays, deployment of current arrays, processing of data/transfer
* Procurement of XBT probes, analysis, interpretation and publishing of annual data
* Procurement of special equipment, finalisation of annual validation campaigns, procurement of satellite data, collection of met-ocean data.
B. Ocean Information Service
* Continuation of generation of SST as in the previous earlier years. Continuation of generation and dissemination of PFZ forecasts.
* Real-time reception of Ocean colour data from IRS-P4 and other foreign satellites. Derivation of the Ocean Colour data products concerning chlorophyll, suspended sediments and bathymetry and operational generation of data products, depending on the availability of ocean colour sensors.
* Experimental generation of integrated PFZ forecast by including various environmental parameters like chlorophyll, suspended sediments, nutrients etc.
* Experimental product generation and validation of products on wind and wave parameters from microwave data. Generation of coastal zone maps/information required by users with available high resolution satellite data.
C. Satellite Coastal & Oceanographic Research (SATCORE)
* Development of Version I software for retrieval of ocean parameters using remote sensing satellites.
* Continuation of R&I activities for upgradation of existing algals, initiation for the development of Version II software by using other algorithms and improved models
D. Ocean Dynamics & Modeling ( OCEMOD)
* Development of process models for air-sea interaction and sub-grid processes
* Integration of Ocean Global Circulation Model (OGCM) and validation
* Formulation of flux schemes/simple atmospheric models for development of an Ocean Model and a hybrid coupled model for the Indian monsoon region.
* Development of data assimilation and forecasting system for horizontal and vertical structure of currents, temperature and salinity in the Indian seas and study of the effect of freshwater discharge from major river system on the circulation.
* Development of a coupled ocean atmospheric model for prediction of tropical cyclones and associated surges. Validation of existing atmospheric model for simulation of tropical cyclones using the past data.
* Sensitivity and validation experiments with regional wave prediction model for the Bay of Bengal.
* Simulation of surface wind stress on monthly and seasonal time-scales using a coupled atmosphere-ocean model (CAOM) to provide forcings for driving an ocean General Circulation Model (OGCM): Comparison of the simulations with observations to determine the skill of the uncoupled hindcasts.
* Development of tidal and wind driven circulation model for Mandovi-Zuari
* Observation part of Land Ocean Interaction in the Coastal Zone (LOICZ) and processing of JGOFS Bay of Bengal proposal.
Financial Requirements: Rs. 13.75 crore.
COASTAL AND MARINE AREA MANAGEMENT
A. Coastal Ocean Monitoring & Prediction Systems (COMAPS)
To ensure the establishment of a permanent setup for systematic observations, DOD will provide a mechanism and infrastructure for data and information to be made available on various time scales to participating institutes. As a result individual National and State Research and Development institutes observing capabilities will be strengthened. Data will be generated by repeated sampling in the coastal waters. Major physical, chemical and biological variables need to be identified that can be used to provide an integrated assessment of the current health of coastal marine environment and early warning of deterioration. The data collection should continue into future as it is anticipated that more effective methods may become available in due course. Although the measurements are being made in a rational fashion with spatial and temporal sampling frequencies, precision and accuracy need to be tuned further to address the specific deliverables of COMAPS. The objectives of the COMAPS are to provide a basis for the assessment of the state and trends in the marine environment regarding the effects of anthropogenic activities including inter alia increased risks to human health, harm to marine resources and general quality of coastal marine environment. The programme of monitoring marine pollution with collection of data at 77 locations on the stipulated 25 parameters will be continued during 98-99 also.
Besides chemical and biological parameters, it is proposed to include physical oceanographic parameters to understand the dynamics of pollutants in the sea, which is location specific due to varied current and circulation patterns, so that appropriate disposal standards and disposal mechanisms can be planned on a short-term basis. The marine environment is dynamic in nature. The pollutants reaching the marine environment from all the sources undergo transformation into different forms ranging from organic to inorganic. These pollutants are diffused, dispersed and biodegraded. The extent of diffusion and dispersion depends mostly on the tidal amplitude, currents and bathymetry of the area. The diffusion and dispersion characteristics of pollutants in our seas is not yet understood.
Very few investigations, particularly from the point of the view of disposal of waste from industries through pipelines, have been made targeting a particular type of pollutants and do not give the idea of diffusion and dispersion characteristics of all types of pollutants in the investigated area. Therefore, several physical oceanographic observations will have to made at selected locations along the coastline and also intensify the monitoring of microbiological investigations as the quantum of wastes from domestic and aquaculture sources are likely to increase in the forthcoming years. A trend of pollution problems in the areas of high concentration of pollutants indicating the extent of their increase and decrease will be monitored.
Financial Requirements : Rs. 1.50 crore.
B. Coastal Research Vessels
During 1998-99, about 48 cruises are proposed to be implemented. Performance of the ships and the equipments onboard the vessels will be periodically reviewed. The scientific contribution of the vessels will be assessed and capabilities of the vessels and scientific instruments abroad the ship will be upgraded for successful execution of all the programmes with suitable linkages of different National and State R&D Institutions including Universities.
Financial Requirements : Rs. 2.50 crore.
C. Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management (ICMAM)
Capacity Building in ICMAM
The Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management (ICMAM) programme will enter into an operational phase from 1998-99. The major activities proposed during the year are as follows:
GIS based information system for critical habitats
* Preparation of current status of environment in the 12 critical habitats namely Gulf of Kachchh, Gulf of Khambat, Malvan, 7 Islands off Karwar, Islands off Cochin backwaters, major islands of Gulf of Mannar, Pitchavaram, Coringa, Bhitarakanika, Sunderbans (Biosphere reserve areas), Lakshadweep island of Kadamat and Wandoor national park (Andamans)
* Workout various data requirements towards development of a Decision Support System (DSS) for management of the critical habitats.
* Methodology workshop explaining in detail the type of methodology to be adopted while analysing all the documents
* Identification and field collection of data from the 12 critical habitats
* Acquisition of satellite data and preparation of basic satellite imageries of all the 12 critical habitats
Determination of Waste Load Allocation and Waste Assimilation Capacity in Tapi Estuary and Ennore Creek
* The Project activities will be carried out by National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) for Ennore creek and by an institution (to be selected) for Tapi estuary. A detailed Project Report will be prepared with the help of a foreign consultant who is expected to be selected in the beginning of the year 1998-99.
* The first season data for hydrodynamic and water quality modelling, ecological assessment will be collected at the end of the year 1998-99.
Development of EIA guidelines for coastal developmental activities
It is proposed to develop EIA guidelines for the following activities:
* For ports, harbours, breakwaters, etc. , offshore structures, coastal roads and structures other than for tourism purposes along with case studies for selected guidelines
* For waste disposal from all sources (domestic sewage, wastes from all types of industries like Power plants (thermal, nuclear), Refineries, Chemicals, Fertilisers, drugs and pharmaceutical, cement, dyes, paper, alkali and other types of industries prevalent along the coastal areas of India) laying of pipelines for waste disposal and other purposes in the sea along with case studies for selected guidelines
* For tourism and human settlement including land/sea reclamation along with case studies
* Brain storming sessions to review the existing guidelines developed in India as well as in other developed and developing countries will be made and an initial draft of EIA guidelines will be attempted at the end of the year 1998-99.
Preparation of Model ICMAM Plans
* Selection of institutions, agencies and consultants to carry out various identified activities.
* Preparation of coastal profile for Chennai, Goa and Gulf of Kachhch
* Identification of environmental problems and their analysis
National Facility on ICMAM
* Construction of the building for housing the training facilities
* Launching of activities for determination of use classification of coastal waters
* R&D Projects for Determination of No Impact Zone
* Application of remote sensing techniques for determination of spectral signatures in mangroves
* Application of remote sensing techniques useful in the management of critical habitats in the Andaman islands
Financial Requirements: Rs. 9.00 crore.
D. Marine Biodiversity
The main objective of this programme is to preserve, conserve and protect the marine flora and fauna and to promote sustainable development and use of the biological resources.
The major programmes proposed to be taken up during 1998-99 include:
* Initiation of data inventories on qualitative and quantitative investigations on occurrence and distribution of marine flora and fauna.
* Development of data base on marine biodiversity and impact of various activities thereon.
* Preparation of management strategy for conservation and sustainable use of marine bio-diversity.
Financial Requirements: Rs. 0.10 crore.
MARINE RESEARCH AND CAPACITY BUILDING
Proposed Programmes for 1998-99 include:
* Continuation of 16 ongoing Research Projects.
* Funding 20 more research projects in newly emerging and front-line areas of ocean sciences viz. Physical, Chemical and Biological Oceanography, Marine Geology and Geophysics, Coastal Engineering, Marine Chemistry, Marine Pharmacology, Pollution and Coastal Zone Management, Ocean Dynamics, Oceanic Processes, Satellite Oceanography, Marine Archeology, Mathematical Modeling, Marine Instrumentation, Climatology, etc.
* Setting up 7 more Ocean Science & Technology Cells in selected coastal Universities, in the areas of ocean atmospheric sciences, ocean engineering & underwater robotics, beach-placer deposits, marine traditional medicines, marine biology, coastal hazards, and marine benthics.
* 80 Fellowships awarded in the previous year will be continued.
* Fresh research associateships and research fellowships will be awarded in specialised areas.
Financial Requirements: Rs. 2.90 crore.
COASTAL COMMUNITY PROGRAMMES
A. Shore to Fishing Vessel Communication System- Phase-II and IFFNGS
* An MOU will be signed between the DOD and the concerned stations for taking over of the Shore to Fishing Vessel Communication system in 10 sites for continuing operation and maintenance beyond 1998-99.
* Obtaining the feedback from the fishermen on the usefulness of IFFNGS for commercialisation of these units.
Financial Requirements: Rs. 0.10 crore.
B. Island Development
* Continuation of the ongoing pogrammes such as rejuvenation of coral reef, studies on the ecology and environmental aspects of the A & N waters.
* A concerted programme for Island Development as a mission mode project of NIOT will be initiated.
* A pilot demonstration project for lobster fattening will be initiated.
* Steps will be initiated for introduction of the mariculture programmes such as culture of sea bass, ornamental fish, and seaweed.
Financial Requirements: Rs. 0.25 crore.
OCEAN AWARENESS ( EXHIBITION & FAIRS, OCEANARIA, AQUARIA ETC.)
* The proposal received for construction of Oceanarium in Delhi and Chennai will be processed further.
* Participation in Lisbon Expo, 1998 in Portugal during May-September,1998.
* Production of video-films on DOD related activities and participation in science fairs/exhibitions in India with the upgradation of the existing exhibits.
Financial Requirements: Rs. 0.30 crore.
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF OCEAN TECHNOLOGY
Infrastructure:
Major part of construction of building, provision of services and providing of accommodation to other units like ICMAM, NDBP, VMC, etc., in the new campus is expected to be accomplished.
Mission Programmes:
Mission I - Ocean Energy
* Efforts will continue towards consolidating the gains made in the wave energy programme. These include the optimisation of the power module, oscillating water column and generator for three classes of applications: viz. Shore based devices, floating devices and devices such as the wave powered navigational buoy. Theoretical studies required for such applications will continue.
* A programme will be initiated to construct an offshore pilot OTEC plant of rating 1MW (gross) using a ship. The major components for the plant include heat exchangers, turbine generators cold water pipe and ammonia systems.
Mission II - Deep Sea Technology and Ocean Mining
* The mission activities under this mission, the technology development for "Deep Sea Mining Systems" is being funded directly by DOD under PMN Programme. Major deliverable during the year 98-99 under this programme will be the demonstration of the mining system at 500 m waters using the crawler and riser technology in collaboration with University of Siegen, Germany. This system will also have a manipulator arm with a dredging cutter for sand mining at 500m water depth apart from the slurry pump to lift the mineral sand to the mother ship through the riser.
* The mission has already taken up two projects in the year 97 - 98 on the development of "Underwater Thrusters" and "Underwater Connectors". The major work in these two programmes will be completed during the current year. The underwater thrusters being developed would serve as the prime mover for different subsea systems like ROV and ROSS. The power and data transmission to such devices would be made possible using the indigenously developed underwater connectors.
Mission III - Coastal and Environmental Engineering
1. Mathematical and Field Studies in Coastal Processes
* Nearshore Wave Modelling
- Interfacing with standard Post processors
- Application to Field cases
- Calibration/ungradation based on field cases
* Sediment Transport Model
- Interfacing with graphics display
- Application to field cases for calibration/validation
2. Storm Surge Modelling
* Numerical modelling of atmospheric forcings due
* to tropical cyclones for storm surge prediction
* Digitisation of coastal belt topography and east coast
* bathymetry from available hydrographic charts
3. Theoretical & Experimental Studies on Coastal and Ocean Structures
* Construction of a groin at Cooum mouth
* Calibration/Performance monitoring
* Performance monitoring of test groin at Pondicherry
4. Development of Shallow water test basin
* Identification of facilities & preparation of specifications
5. Determination of Waste load allocation and assimilation capacity at selected estuarine locations along coastal waters of India
6. Development of EIA guidelines for Marine Developmental activities
Mission IV - Marine Instrumentation
* Development of acoustic sub-bottom profiler study of existing system
* Design of complete system
* Procurement of components
* Assembly and testing
* Software development
* System integration
Acoustic Test Facilities
* Planning of test facility at NIOT Campus
* Procurement and installation of standard projector hydrophone & other accessories
Remotely Operable Surface Skimming (ROSS) platform
* Specifications for adopting ROSS for depthing measurements
* Procurement of hardware
* Software and hardware modifications to the existing module
* Sub-assembly testing
Current Meter Development
* Specification for adopting multi layer current meter for handhold current mete
* Procurement of hardware
* Software modification
* Hardware design and testing
Development of duel frequency echo sounder
* Testing the specifications
* Transceiver hardware lab prototype
* Transmission and reception system software
* Filtering and signal conditioning
* System integration and lab test
* An in-house technology development programme initiated to develop an acoustic tide gauge is proposed to be carried out.
* Development of remotely operable sea skimmer (ROSS)
* Preliminary work on mathematical modelling, calibration and design of Directional Wave Rider Buoy.
Financial Requirements : Rs. 13.50 crore.
INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS & CO-OPERATION PROGRAMMES
A. Contribution to International Organisations:
* India will continue to contribute and participate as a Member in the Antarctic Treaty System, UNCLOS, ISBA, IOC, Regional Seas Programme, CCAMLR, COMNAP/SCALOP etc.
Financial Requirements: Rs. 1.50 crore.
B. Delineation of Outer Limits of Continental Shelf:
In order to minimise the cost, realistic assessment of the survey work is being carried out with the emphasis on pooling the national resources and upgrading the existing facilities including vessels and onboard equipment. Based on the realistic requirement, the activities such as chartering of the vessel for seismic survey and procurement of equipment will be carried out in the year 1998-99.
Following activities are proposed in the year 1998-99:
* Continuation of Baseline survey for East Coast and West Coast of India.
* Deployment of ORV Sagar Kanya for Bathymetric survey along indicative Foot of the Slope
* Initiation of Seismic survey
Financial Requirement : Rs. 0.50 crore.
ADMINISTATIVE SUPPORT & INFRASTRUCTURE
The Department of Ocean Development has three attached offices viz., Antarctic Study Centre, Goa, Polymetallic Nodules Cell, New Delhi and Sagar Sampada Cell, Kochi. Besides, there is one field Office viz., Andaman & Nicobar Centre for Ocean Development (ANCOD) at Port Blair. Out of 213 posts, created for the Department and its attached and subordinate offices, 117 posts pertain to plan side. The posts were created for providing infrastructural support by way of scientific and technical manpower and other supporting staff to review, implement and monitor various approved plan programmes.
In addition, the Department is contemplating creation of 31 technical and 9 supporting staff at DOD headquarters during the 9th Five Year Plan for advancement of various scientific programmes viz. Polar Sciences, Marine Living Resources, Non-Living Resources, Coastal Community & island Development, Marine Environment and Coastal Zone, Ocean Observation & Information Services, Marine Research & Manpower Development and Ocean Awareness and International Programmes - Delineation of Continental Shelf.
Thus, provision for salary, TA/DA etc., for of staff including implementation of V Pay Commission recommendations to the tune of Rs. 9 crore, has been kept for the entire 9th Five Year Plan.
A number of posts are likely to be filled up during 1998-99. It is also proposed to convert the attached office Antarctic Study Centre into an autonomous Society.
Financial Requirement: Rs. 1.65 crore
NON-PLAN
EXPLORATION AND ASSESSMENT OF LIVING AND NON-LIVING RESOURCES
In year 1998-99, ORV Sagar Kanya and FORV Sagar Sampada will perform multidisciplinary and multi-insitutional cruises for assessment of marine living and non-living resources in our EEZ and beyond. Carry out studies on the geological oceanography, biological oceanography, chemical oceanography, physical oceanography and exploration activity in Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea with the participation of various CSIR and ICAR institutions.
Financial Requirements : Rs. 16.98 crore.
|
|
CHAPTER V
Appraisal of Performance of Major Programmes/Projects
|
|
POLAR SCIENCE (ANTARCTIC RESEARCH) PROGRAMME
The Antarctic Research programme which was initiated on a modest scale in 1981 has since taken shape into a major national programme that has a distinct multi-institutional and multi- disciplinary approach. So far 19 scientific expeditions have been launched on a regular basis, including two expeditions to the Southern Oceans one to Waddell Sea and another one for assessment of Antarctic Krill, which have carried out research work in the thrust areas of polar science. Till date, more than 45 national institutions have participated as scientific and logistic components of the expedition thereby putting about 1200 Indians to the icy continent.
The first Indian station, Dakshin Gangotri which was established on the ice-shelf in 1984 has been replaced by a modern and indigenously built station `Maitri' established in the Schirmacher Oasis in 1988. Maitri is equipped to provide comfortable living facilities for 25 persons on a year round basis and has several laboratories to carry out research in the frontier areas of Antarctic Science. So far, eleven technical reports have been published and two reports are presently under preparation. Approximately, 300 scientific papers have been published in various national and international journals. All these publications have been compiled and structured by the Department as the Indian National Database on Antarctic Science (INDAS). The remote and unhospitable continent has been used by the Indian scientists as a unique laboratory for conducting scientific investigations which have a direct bearing on the globe as a whole and Geo-political relevance for India in particular.
By virtue of our sustained scientific interest in Antarctica, India has acquired Consultative Status in the Antarctic Treaty System. She is also a member of various international bodies affiliated to the Antarctic Treaty System. India has been able to decisively influence the outcome of the negotiations leading to the adoption of the protocol on Environmental protection to the Antarctic Treaty in 1991, which has since been ratified by India in April 1996.
The policy of the Department of Ocean Development, which is the nodal agency responsible for planning and execution of Indian Antarctic Expeditions, is to conduct a carefully balanced optimum programme of contemporary science through which it is possible to maintain an active and influential presence of India in Antarctica. The Department constantly keeps evolving scientific programmes, which are based on national priorities and contribute to global issues. India's long term scientific strategy in Antarctic has been judiciously framed by the Department with a clear cut focus on three basic and mutually dependent factors namely, science, logistics and economics. Over the years, a distinct impetus on scientific objectives has resulted in an increase in the scientific team component over the logistic team.
The success of the Antarctic Programme is an example of multi-disciplinary and multi- institutional approach adopted by the Department. In order to consolidate our gains from these expeditions, the Department is establishing a state-of-the-art polar research laboratory in the Antarctic Study Centre, Goa. Further, in order to continue to play a perceptible role in Antarctic science, a distinct thrust has been provided on bi-/multi-lateral scientific cooperations so as to contribute to international scientific campaigns which have to address pertinent global issues.
In brief, the benefits of the Antarctic research to India are:
* Studies of Antarctic meteorology with the aim to build a climatological data set for application in the prediction and forecast of the Indian monsoons.
* Studies on ozone hole and other trace gases to understand its influence over the climatic pattern of the Southern Indian Ocean.
* Studies on auroral phenomenon and geo-magnetic storms have yielded valuable insights to solar terrestrial physics of the outer space.
* Geological mapping of hitherto unmapped areas of Schirmacher Oasis and Wolhthat mountains has helped to understand the geological evolution of this area and its co-relation in the reconstruction of the Gondwanaland.
* Studies on human adaptations in cold and extreme conditions and this application to the frontier regions of the country.
* Identification of Antarctic microbes and its application for human and organic waste degradation in cold regions of Himalayas.
* Technology transfer on a commercial basis as a spin-off of the SODAR instrument developed in Antarctica for studying inland environmental pollution.
* Research and development in cold temperature technology in designing prototype toilet incinerators, generators and low temperature structures used in Antarctica has been deployed in colder regions of the country.
* Availability of trained manpower pool to work in extreme cold, harsh and isolated conditions have been generated from the expeditions.
* The Indian Navy and Air Force by virtue of their participation in the expeditions have gained professional expertise of the highest order in snow-ice navigation under adverse climatic conditions.
MARINE NON-LIVING RESOURCES
The Polymetallic Nodules Programme envisaged eventual exploitation of the nodules from the allotted 150,000 sq. km. mine site in the Central Indian Ocean Basin. As per an international commitment to the International Seabed Authority, India has to relinguish 50% of the total area assigned, after detailed survey and exploration and retain the remaining 50% for future exploration and exploitation. India is a member of the Council of International Seabed Authority, under the Investors' category owing to its contribution and commitment to the Polymetallic Nodules programme. India's nominees are also on the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, Legal and Technical Commission of the Council, Finance Committee of the Authority and the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf.
As commercial mining of nodules according to international forecasts may not be feasible for some more time to come, development of technologies for mining from the deep ocean may be viewed as contribution to a long term objective. The Department appointed two committees headed by Shri M. Gopalkrishna, Additional Secretary and Shri B.K. Rao, Ex-Secretary, Ministry of Mines to suggest alternative uses of technologies for intermediate applications. The entire mining programme has been reoriented on the recommendation of these committees.
An upgraded version of Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) has been designed, developed and tested in shallow depth of 5 Mts. by Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI), Durgapur. A 2nd generation ROV designed for 250 Mts. depth has been tested off Chennai successfully.
The Survey and Exploration endeavour is aimed at firmly establishing the resource potential on the basis of progressive closer grids sampling, spot photographs. Topography of the pioneer area has been completely covered by hydrosweep. The abundance pattern vis-a-vis the geomorphology is established along with upgradation of the resource evaluation techniques on the basis of one lakh photographs obtained from the minesite. Three moored systems deployed in the pioneer area obtained continuous time series oceanographic data. The analysis of the data will reveal the environmental condition at various depths over a period of time in the pioneer area of the Central Indian Ocean.
Pilot plant campaigns of 100 Kg. per day capacity continued at RRL and NML for optimising the process parameters for recoveries of Copper, Nickel and Cobalt. At HZL batch scale experiments are conducted for firming the process package. The process route at RRL has been chosen for testings on a continuous demonstration plant of 500 Kg. per day capacity. Pilot plant campaigns are continued at RRL(s) to generate data that will facilitate design of the demonstration plant.
MARINE LIVING RESOURCES
A. Drugs from Sea
The National Project on Drugs from Sea is a multi-institutional project aiming at developing potential drugs and chemicals from the marine flora and fauna. This project which entered its 3rd phase from 1996-97 onwards, has led to identification of five marine organisms showing potent activity as anti-diabetic, anti-viral, anti-anxiety, anti-cholesterol and larvicidal agents for developing one herbal anti-diabetic drug by 1998-99.
B. Assessment /Survey of marine living resources
The cruises so far undertaken by FORV Sagar Sampada have helped in identifying the location for some of the under-exploited and potential rich deep oceanic resources in the Indian EEZ. The data/information collected through these cruises and disseminated to the fishing community appears to be one of the factors influencing the augmentation of production of fish an shellfish from both the inshore and offshore waters.
OCEAN OBSERVATION & INFORMATION SERVICES
The various related programmes of the Department such as MARSIS,SELMAM, NIOS, JGOFS, National Data Buoy., implemented during the 8th five Year Plan, have been revamped and integrated into a major scheme " Ocean Observation and Information Services (OOIS) " for the 9th Five year Plan period. The OOIS consists of four components viiz. Ocean Observation System; Ocean Information Services; Satellite Oceanography; and Ocean Modeling and Dynamics. The primary objective of OOIS is to generate reliable coastal and ocean data products pertaining to winds, waves, sea surface temperature, currents, upwelling, potential fishing zone information, coastal maps etc., for potential use in coastal and offshore developmental activities and for furthering the quality of oceanogrpahic research.
Extensive validation studies of the PFZ advisories have confirmed its utility in reducing the search time by fishing boats and also in getting better catch per unit effort. This data product has been well accepted by both the traditional and mechanised fishing sectors. However, the Department plans to further refine the PFZ by incorporating other parameters such as chlorophyll data which could not so far be achieved due to non-availability of ocean colour data from satellites. It was originally planned to get this data from the sea Wifs, on-board the American Satellite "sea star". However, the launch of this satellite has been postponed.
The coral reefs of the entire country have been mapped and codified. These maps are useful in the scientific management of the fragile coral ecosystem. Coastal wet-land maps and Shore-line change maps of entire country have been prepared. These maps indicate mangroves, aqua-culture sites, coastal erosion, accretion which are useful in coastal zone management. Suspended sediment load maps developed through the MARSIS programme are very useful for the port authorities, State Governments and researches for various applications.
The programme has also succeeded in demonstrating on a pilot basis the capability for retrieval of other parameters such as winds, wave, currents, Mixed Layer Depth, Heat budget of the oceans etc. from satellite data. The possibility of making these parameters operationally available is being explored.
COASTAL AND MARINE AREA MANAGEMENT
A. Coastal Ocean Monitoring & Prediction Systems (COMAPS)
Due to multipurpose uses of the coastal zone such as shipping, fishing, tourism, industrialisation and disposal of wastes, the stress on the coastal area is growing rapidly with developments taking place often in an unplanned fashion and unmindful of long term consequences. COMAPS is designed to assess the status and likely trends in coastal marine environment quality and to contribute directly to the development of strategies for maximizing the economic benefits derived from the intelligent and sustainable use of marine environment and resources. Coastal Ocean Monitoring and Prediction System (COMAPS) is a continuing programme since 1991, for monitoring the level of various marine pollutants and its impacts on marine fauna and flora of the country. Data collected through this programme are essential to formulate remedial measures to protect health of our marine environment. Depending upon the level and source of pollutants 77 sampling stations have been chosen and classified as "Hot spot" and "Regular" stations. Data on 25 environmental parameters including pesticides, heavy metals and other pollution indicating parameters like dissolved oxygen, pathogenic bacterial are being monitored. The infrastructure and other facilities of National and State Research and Development institutions which are participating in the programme have been fully strengthened to undertake all activities stipulated for this programme. The results emerging through these studies have shown that our coastal waters are by and large clean, and represent a healthy environment. The data collected are also reported to coastal State Pollution Control Boards. It appears that the organised industry is slowly disciplining itself in following proper environmental standards.
B. Coastal Research Vessels
The coastal research vessels are essential to ensure coverage of sea areas at desired location for sampling towards monitoring of pollution and to facilitate systematic on board analysis of samples collected. The facilities established onboard the vessels were highly useful for analysing most of the parameters. National Institute of Ocean Technology, Chennai is successfully managing these vessels. So far both the vessels have completed 47 cruises. Apart from that the vessel, "Sagar Purvi" served as a testing platform for the Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) developed by Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute, Durgapur under Polymetallic Nodules Programme of Department of Ocean Development.
C. Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management (ICMAM)
Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management (ICMAM) is a new activity started during the 9th Plan period and to ensure adoption of an integrated approcah in the management of marine environment. The major achievement during the year was, establishment of a Project Directorate at Chennai to carry out the project activities and likely completion of all the preparatory works to operationalise the project activities in the year 1998-99.
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF OCEAN TECHNOLOGY
The major objective of NIOT is to initiate and develop new technologies for harnessing ocean resources. As the ocean field is quite large, the work of NIOT is mandated to be carried out under four specific missions as indicated earlier in Chapter I. The major achievement of NIOT so far has been development of a new generation power module required in the wave energy project. Through intensive design and modelling an improved air turbine with a variable speed induction generator has been designed and fabricated. The new power module has been installed in the Wave energy plant and its performance is being studied.
MARINE RESEARCH AND CAPACITY BUILDING
With a view to encouraging research in the newly emerging and frontline areas of Coastal Engineering, Marine Chemistry, Marine Biology and Microbiology, Pharmacology, Coastal Zone management, Marine Archaeology, Exploration and Exploitation of Marine Resources, etc., to create infrastructure facilities in Universities/Institutions/Orgnisations, etc., and to generate specialist Manpower in Ocean Sector, the Department has been implmenting this programme.
The research projects so far funded under this programme of the Department have provided interesting results on the history of the sedimentation process; tectonic events before myoceine period including Himalayan drift; physical, chemical and biological oceanography of our sea; provided clues for development of potential drugs and chemicals from the marine organisms; etc. A large number of scientific papers on various aspects of ocean science and technology have so far been published. Over 100 fellowships awarded to young scientists for pursuing higher studies in the ocean sector have helped augmenting the manpower resources, capacity building and improving the scope for further research in marine sciences.
|
|
CHAPTER VI
Summary of Financial Requirements
|
 CLICK HERE
|
|
CHAPTER VII
Explanation of Financial Requirements for 1998-99
|
|
POLAR SCIENCE (ANTARCTIC RESEARCH) PROGRAMME
During 1998-99, the 18th Indian Antarctic Expedition will be launched for achieving a part of the long term scientific objectives as laid down in the ten years work profile designed by the Department. The activities are proposed to be continued in the areas of geology, atmospheric sciences, biological sciences etc as already explained in Chapter IV. The benefits of the scientific research to India are given in detail in Chapter V.
In order to continue the scientific activities and maintain the station, it would be necessary to continue the chartering of the ice-breaker along with other logistics activities in the station for which funds to the tune of Rs.18.50 crore are estimated to be required in the year 1998-99.
NON-LIVING RESOURCES
A. Polymetallic Nodules Programme
The Polymetallic Nodule (PMN) Programme consists of the following basic components:
1. Survey & Exploration in the Central Indian Ocean Basin (CIOB)
2. Environmental Impact Assessment
3. Technology Development (Mining)
4. Technology Development (Metallurgy)
It would be one of the potential and promising areas for development of expertise and technologies. The programme is important in many a way. First, it is the field of pioneer ocean- related technology with enormous promise for the future. The PMN Programme has been reoriented on the basis of recommendations of expert committees constituted by the Department to review the programme. The details of the activities proposed to be taken up during 1998-99 are the part of long- term activities planned under the programme.
To achieve the targets stipulated for these activities an outlay of Rs.18.95 crore is essential during 1998-99
B. Hydromas and Benfan
During 1998-99, the project activities such as identifying the nature, chemistry and frequency of hydrothermal discharges with Andaman back-arc basin, development of a maodel for hydrothermal processes and metallogenesis; geomorphology, micropalaenological, OBM measurement, seismic observations, size analysis and clay mineralogy, palynology of core samples, radioactive and stable isotope measurements, modeling of sedimentary and deep coastal processes etc., of BENFAN, will be studied.
To undertake these activities, a sum of Rs. 0.10 crore is very much essential.
MARINE LIVING RESOURCES
A. Drugs from Sea
The project will enter the most critical phase of bringing out and marketing a herbal anti- diabetic drug from marine flora/fauna during 1998-89. Besides, regulatory pharmacological and toxicological studies of the active extracts/products, phase I and II clinical trials for the rpoducts under traditional mode, will also be taken up.
The outlay of Rs. 2.50 crore proposed for 1998-99, therefore, is very much essential.
B. Assessment of Marine Living Resources
Towards making a realistic assessment of the marine living resources beyond 70 m depth, compilation of the existing information on distribution and abundance of the resources, development of a standard methodology for their assessment and upgradation of facilities therefor, the outlay of Rs. 0.30 crore proposed during 1998-99, is suggested..
C. Mariculture
During 1998-99, it is planned to take up preliminary work on creation of the basic infrastructure facilities, upgradation of the R&D base etc., for which a token provision of Rs. 0.10 crore made is very much required.
OCEAN OBSERVATION & INFORMATION SERVICES
A. Ocean Observing System
Procurement of drifting bouys, current arrays, XBT probes and other special equipment needed for collection, analysis, validation and dissemination of satellite data, met-ocean data, real- time meteorological and oceanographic data and tidal data, are proposed to be given a major thrust during 1998-99. In addition, the last batch of 5 buoys from OCEANOR, Norway and deployment, periodical maintenance of buoys and sensors, data dissemination etc., will also be taken up.
B. Ocean Information Service
Continued generation of sea surface temperature, potential fishing zone forecasts, product generation and validation of products on wind and wave parameters from microwave data, coastal maps/information using high resolution satellite data, real-time reception of ocean colour data from IRS-P4 etc., setting up of a dedicated Ocean Informattion Centre, are the major activities proposed for 1998-99.
C. Satellite Coastal & Oceanographic Research
Development of version I and II software for retrieval of ocean parameters using remote sensing satellites and R&D activities will be continued.
D. Ocean Modeling and Dynamics
Development of Ocean Model; a coupled model for Indian monsoon; a coupled model for ocean atmospheric model for prediction of tropical cyclones and associated surges; wave prediction model; ocean circulation model; observation on land-ocean interaction in the coastal zone etc., are proposed to be taken up during 1998-99.
For taking up all these programmes including the externally aided project of Data Buoy the sum of Rs. 13.75 crore is proposed for 1998-99.
COASTAL AND MARINE AREA MANAGEMENT
A. Coastal Ocean Monitoring & Prediction Systems (COMAPS)
Intercalibration exercises on chemical parameters once every six months, collection of data on chemical and biological pollution and other parameters and intensive monitoring of hot spots, etc., will be carried out. Processing of data to draw inference on the levels of pollutants in different parts of coastal ocean and dissemination of these to the Pollution Control Boards, will also be addressed.
For this purpose, during 1998-99, an outlay of Rs. 1.50 crore is the essential requirement.
B. Coastal Research Vessels
The vessels will be used for the COMAPS purpose by the National and State Research and Development Institutions including Pollution Control Boards. The National Institute of Ocean Technology, Chennai will continue to run, maintain and manage these vessels. For this purpose an amount of Rs. 2.50 crore is required during 1998-99.
C. Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management (ICMAM)
The Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management (ICMAM) have two components namely Capacity Building on ICMAM and National Facility on ICMAM. The Capacity Building component includes undertaking of new activities in India for which we do not have any experience in the past. These activities which will be launched during the year 1997-98, will be opertionalised in 1998-99 for which an amount of Rs.6.60 crore will be required.
The National Facility on ICMAM, survey and the R&D activities will be operationalised and the building activities will be commenced will require an amount of Rs.3.40 crore.
Thus, an amount of Rs. 9.00 crore very much essential in order to accomplish the objectives set for these programmes during the 9th Five Year Plan.
D. Marine Biodiversity
The programme which was proposed to be taken up for implementation during 1997-98, was defered to 1998-99, which includes development of data base on marine biodiversity and impact of various activities thereon.
Towards this, a provision of Rs. 0.10 crore made in the year 1998-99 is very much essential.
MARINE RESEARCH AND CAPACITY BUILDING
It is essential to undertake R & D activities in the ocean sector in order to understand the oceanographic phenomena and to study basic aspects relating to the oceans and its inhabitants. Several ongoing projects will have to be continued. Under Manpower Programme support to research personnel will have to be continued in various Universities/Laboratories. The Ocean Science & Technology Cells set up in a few selected maritime Universities/academic institutios will grow into full fledeged Centres of Excellence in the relevant field.
Therefore, during 1998-99 Rs. 3.00 crore is very much required for Marine Research and Capacity Building.
COASTAL COMMUNITY PROGRAMME
A. Shore to fishing vessel communication system and IFFNGS
As already indicated earlier, during 1998-99, 10 shore stations under Phase-II of the Project "Shore to Fishing Vessel Communication System" will be operationalised and maintained.
To meet the spill over commitment a token amount of Rs.0.10 crore has been earmarked for expenditure during 1998-99.
B. Island Development
A concerted programme for island development as a mission mode programme of National Institute of Ocean Technology has been introduced in January, 1998. This implemented in full swing during the year 1998-99. Under this project the requisite facilities for demonstration of the technology for lobster fattening involving the island community, on pilot scale will be created and steps will be taken to introduce programmes for enhancement of marine living resources through sea farming and sea ranching in the island groups.
The sum of Rs. 0.25 crore proposed as the outlay for 1998-99, therefore is the barest minimum required.
C. Ocean Awareness
During the year 1998-99 the Deptt. will participate in Lisbon Expo,'98. The Deptt. will also participate in other related exhibitions also. It is also proposed to produce a few video films on Department's programmes. With a view to promoting awareness among the public and school children, it is also proposed to promote construction of oceanaria and aquaria at selected locations.
To carry out these activities in the year 1998-99 an amount of Rs.0.30 crore is proposed.
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF OCEAN TECHNOLOGY
Construction of a major part of the NIOT campus at Chennai will be completed. Under the Ocean Energy mission the pilot 1MW Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) programme in cooperation with Saga University, Japan, will be initiated as a technology demonstration programme. Similarly under the deep sea mining technology mission, a joint pilot shallow bed mining technology demonstration programme with technical expertise from the Univeristy of Siegen, Germany will be taken up. The efforts for development of underwater thrusters and underwater connectors will be continued and completed.
Under the Coastal and Environmental Engineering mission, mathematical and field studies in coastal processes such as nearshore wave model, sediment transport model , storm surge model, theoretical and experimental studies on coastal and ocean structures, will be developed. Development of shallow water test basin, determination of waste load and waste assimilation capacity of selected coastal waters, development of EIA guidelines for marine developmental activities, etc. will also be addressed.
Under the mission Marine Instrumentation, development of acoustic sub-bottom profiler, creation of acoustic test facilities, development of remotely operable surface skimming platform, current meter, duel frequency echo-sounder and directional wave rider buoy, will be taken up.
A financial outlay of Rs. 13.50 crore has been proposed for these programmes during 1998- 99.
INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS & CO-OPERATION PROGRAMMES
A. Contribution to International Organisations
During the year 1998-99 also contributions to International Commissions and organisations such as UNCLOS, ISBA, COMNAP/SCALOP, CCAMLR, Regional Seas Programme, etc., where India has made commitments will have to be continued. The studies relating to JGOFS will also need to be continued to yield valuable conclusions.
For these an amount of Rs.1.50 crore is required during 1998-99.
B. Delineation of Outer Limits of Continental shelf
The Programme on Delineation of Outer Limits of Continental Shelf will also be taken up with bathymetric and seismic survey of the east and west coasts. This would require an adequately equipped ship for bathymetric and seismic investigation.
For this purpose, a token provision of Rs. 0.50 crore, has been proposed in 1998-99.
ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT & INFRASTRUCTURE
During 9th Five year period, it is proposed to create 31 scientific/technical and 9 supporting positions for advancement of various scientific programmes, of which a large number of posts will be filled up during 1998-99. It is also proposed to convert the attached office Antarctic Study Centre into an autonomous Society.
For this purpose, an outlay of Rs. 1.65 crore provided for in 1998-99, is fully justifiable.
NON-PLAN
EXPLORATION AND ASSESSMENT OF LIVING AND NON-LIVING RESOURCES
The task of survey to locate and map the resources potential , living and non-living with the help of DOD's own vessels ORV Sagar Kanya and FORV Sagar will have to be continued in the coming years as collection of enormous data and information on geological oceanography, biological oceanography, chemical oceanography, physical oceanography and exploration activity in Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea are essential in order to understand various oceanographic phenomena.
Even though the Department has been requesting Ministry of Finance to enhance the non-plan budget provision for operation and maintenance of these two research vessels which are already 14-15 years old necessitating replacement of both the deck machinery and other essential equipment/instruments and the fund allocation has always been less than necessary. This has resulted over the years in accumulation of huge amounts of payments to be made to Shipping corporation of India which runs the vessels.
An allocation of Rs. 9.48 crore and Rs.7.50 crore made for operation and management of ORV Sagar Kanya and FORV Sagar Sampada, respectively, during 1998-99, is the barest minimum.
|
Ministry of Earth Sciences
