GSI Grants LoA to GRSE for Construction of Two Coastal Research Vessels
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Synopsis
On April 10, 2023, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd secured a LoA from the Geological Survey of India (GSI) for two Coastal Research Vessels worth Rs 489.98 crore. The project is to be completed in 36 months, focusing on scientific research and oceanographic studies.
Key Takeaways
- GRSE awarded LoA for two CRVs.
- Project worth Rs 489.98 crore.
- To be completed within 36 months.
- Designed for Exclusive Economic Zone operations.
- Includes advanced scientific research capabilities.
Kolkata, April 10 (NationPress) Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd has been awarded a Letter of Award (LoA) by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) for the design and delivery of two Coastal Research Vessels (CRVs), as per official announcements.
The project is valued at Rs 489.98 crore and is required to be completed within 36 months following the contract signing between GRSE and GSI.
According to the Union Ministry of Mines, which oversees GSI, these CRVs will be constructed to function within India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) at depths of 5-1,000 metres. They are designed to have a minimum operational lifespan of 30 years with standard maintenance, spending roughly 270 days at sea annually at various intervals.
An official specified that the vessels will measure approximately 62 metres in length and 12 metres in width, with a draught requirement of 3.2 metres, and a deadweight tonnage of around 450 Tons.
“The vessels will attain a maximum speed of 10 knots and possess an endurance of 15 days per voyage,” he stated.
The CRVs will utilize diesel-electric propulsion, where diesel generators will typically power the vessels, while batteries—charged via shore power—will be employed during departures and stationary scientific activities.
“These batteries will support rapid charging and come with a 10-year warranty,” he added.
The primary functions of these vessels will include offshore geological mapping, mineral exploration (including dredging), ocean environment monitoring, and research, along with shipboard data processing and sample analysis in modern scientific labs.
GRSE, known mainly for its warship construction and having delivered a record 110 warships to the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, is rapidly becoming a hub for advanced scientific vessels.
The shipyard is currently engaged in building an Acoustic Research Ship for the DRDO and an Ocean Research Vessel for the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
At present, the shipyard is working on 41 vessels, which includes 17 warships for the Indian Navy. The warships consist of four classes, including three Advanced Frigates under the Navy's Project 17A and four Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels.
