Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, recently launched ‘SAGAR SAMPARK,’ an indigenous Differential Global Navigation Satellite System (DGNSS). This system aims to enhance navigation accuracy by correcting errors and inaccuracies in the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), ultimately ensuring safer and more efficient marine navigation.
Introducing SAGAR SAMPARK:
SAGAR SAMPARK is an indigenous Differential Global Navigation Satellite System that provides accurate positioning information by transmitting corrections for both GPS and Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS). This system is designed to address the limitations of the existing GNSS and improve navigation accuracy.
Enhancing Navigation Accuracy:
The significance of SAGAR SAMPARK lies in its ability to significantly improve the accuracy of GPS positioning. By correcting errors caused by atmospheric interferences, satellite clock drift, and other factors, the system ensures more precise and reliable positioning information for marine navigation.
Assisting the Director General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL):
SAGAR SAMPARK will be deployed at six locations to assist the Director General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL) in providing radio aids to ships for marine navigation. The system’s accurate information will help ships navigate safely, reducing the risk of collisions, groundings, and accidents in port and harbor areas. This, in turn, promotes the safe and efficient movement of vessels.
Improved Error Correction and Accuracy:
With the implementation of SAGAR SAMPARK, the error correction accuracy for GPS positioning has been significantly improved. The system reduces errors caused by atmospheric interferences, satellite clock drift, and other factors. The accuracy has been enhanced from 5 to 10 meters to less than 5 meters for 100 Nautical Miles (NM) from Indian coastlines. This improvement in accuracy ensures precise navigation guidance for ships, leading to safer and more efficient maritime operations.
Advancing Maritime Safety:
The launch of SAGAR SAMPARK represents a significant step towards enhancing maritime safety. With its accurate positioning information and error correction capabilities, the system minimizes the risks associated with navigation in coastal areas. By reducing the occurrence of collisions, groundings, and accidents, SAGAR SAMPARK contributes to safer and more secure marine operations.
Indigenous Technological Advancement:
The development and launch of SAGAR SAMPARK reflect India’s indigenous technological capabilities. By designing and implementing an indigenous Differential Global Navigation Satellite System, India showcases its expertise in satellite-based navigation systems. This achievement reinforces the nation’s commitment to technological advancements and self-reliance in critical domains.
Impacts on Navigation Efficiency:
The accuracy improvements brought by SAGAR SAMPARK have a direct impact on navigation efficiency. Ships can navigate with greater confidence and precision, leading to optimized routes, reduced voyage times, and increased operational efficiency. The system’s ability to provide accurate positioning information will also support the planning and execution of maritime operations, enhancing overall efficiency and productivity.
