In a significant stride toward bolstering India’s scientific prowess in Antarctica, the government has unveiled plans to establish a state-of-the-art research station in East Antarctica, adjacent to the existing Indian research base, Maitri. This ambitious initiative aims to enhance the country’s scientific capabilities while ensuring compliance with environmental protocols governing the Antarctic region.
The proposed site for the new research station has been identified, marking a pivotal step forward in this groundbreaking project. A preliminary topographical survey for the approach road is currently underway, setting the stage for the station’s development.
Outlined with a meticulous timeline, the project’s roadmap delineates a series of crucial milestones to bring the new research station to fruition:
- Development of Master Plan and Designing: Spanning 18 months, this phase involves conceptualizing the master plan, hiring consultants, and crafting the blueprint for the station’s infrastructure.
- Tendering and Contractual Procedures: Over the subsequent 18 months, the project entails drafting tenders, awarding contracts, conducting site surveys by consultants, and initiating road cutting and formations at the site.
- Prefabrication and Procurement: Another 18 months are allocated for procuring materials, prefabricating components on the mainland, and transporting them to Cape Town or Antarctica, preparing for construction by the appointed company.
- Final Construction Phase: The final leg involves transporting assembled components from the Indian Barrier to the designated site and executing construction in Antarctica, spanning 12 months, culminating in the project’s completion by January 2029.
Highlighting the necessity for this monumental undertaking, Union Minister of Earth Sciences, Shri Kiren Rijiju, emphasized the aging infrastructure of the existing Maitri research station. The imperative to erect a new station aims not only to replace the antiquated facilities but also to fortify India’s commitment to conducting cutting-edge scientific research in the Antarctic region.
Crucially, the project is underpinned by a commitment to adhere strictly to the environmental protocols governing Antarctica. By ensuring eco-friendly construction practices and operational protocols, India aims to preserve the pristine Antarctic environment while fostering high-quality scientific exploration and discoveries.
The revelation of these plans in the Rajya Sabha underscores the government’s unwavering dedication to advancing India’s scientific footprint in Antarctica. The establishment of a new research station near Maitri represents a significant leap forward, promising enhanced research capabilities and contributing to the global scientific community’s understanding of this crucial region.