The INS Sarvekshak, a hydrographic survey ship under the Southern Command of the Indian Navy, plays a crucial role in India’s maritime operations. Commissioned in 2002 and constructed by Goa Shipyard Limited, the vessel is tasked with a variety of important functions, including hydrographic surveys, nautical chart preparation, cartography, and providing training. The ship is equipped with state-of-the-art technology such as Deep Sea Multi-Beam Echo Sounders and Side Scan Sonars, which enable it to carry out its duties effectively. Presently, the INS Sarvekshak is engaged in a joint hydrographic survey operation with Mauritius in the deep-sea area off Port Louis.
Design and Construction
The INS Sarvekshak was designed and built by Goa Shipyard Limited, a premier shipbuilding company in India. The ship’s design caters specifically to the needs of hydrographic surveying, incorporating advanced features that facilitate detailed and accurate mapping of the ocean floor. Its construction involved the integration of robust materials and systems to ensure it could withstand the demanding conditions of deep-sea exploration and data collection.
Commissioning and Capabilities
In 2002, the INS Sarvekshak officially became part of the Indian Navy’s fleet. Since its commissioning, the ship has been instrumental in enhancing the Navy’s hydrographic survey capabilities. Its primary role is to conduct thorough hydrographic surveys, which are critical for safe navigation, maritime trade, and the security of India’s maritime borders. The data collected by the ship helps in the creation of nautical charts, which are essential for seafarers worldwide.
Advanced Equipment Onboard
The INS Sarvekshak is outfitted with sophisticated equipment that sets it apart from other vessels in its class. The Deep Sea Multi-Beam Echo Sounder is one such piece of technology that allows the ship to obtain high-resolution images of the seabed. This tool is vital for detecting underwater features and obstacles that could pose risks to navigation. Additionally, the Side Scan Sonars on board provide detailed scans of large areas of the sea floor, enabling the crew to identify and map various underwater formations and potential hazards.
Training and Cartography
Apart from survey missions, the INS Sarvekshak also serves as a training platform for naval officers and sailors specializing in hydrography. By offering hands-on experience with cutting-edge hydrographic equipment and techniques, the ship prepares personnel to conduct precise surveys and contribute to the field of oceanography. Furthermore, the expertise gained in cartography—the science of map-making—ensures that the information gathered during surveys is accurately represented in nautical charts used by mariners around the world.
Joint Hydrographic Survey with Mauritius
Currently, the INS Sarvekshak is engaged in a collaborative effort with Mauritius, conducting a joint hydrographic survey off the coast of Port Louis. This partnership underscores the strategic cooperation between India and Mauritius in the realm of maritime security and navigation safety. The joint survey aims to gather comprehensive hydrographic data of the deep-sea area, which will be mutually beneficial for both nations in terms of maritime commerce and the monitoring of their respective Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs).
The deployment of INS Sarvekshak for such international collaborations highlights the Indian Navy’s commitment to fostering maritime relationships and contributing to regional stability. By sharing its hydrographic capabilities with neighboring countries, India not only strengthens bonds but also promotes the safety and efficiency of international maritime navigation.
