Union Minister Inaugurates CSIR-NIO Shore-Based Laboratory in Visakhapatnam
Union Minister of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr Jitendra Singh, officially inaugurated the shore-based laboratory of the CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) regional centre in Visakhapatnam on Friday. The event marked a significant milestone in India's oceanographic research capabilities along the eastern coast.
Facility Details and Strategic Location
The NIO centre has acquired four acres of land from the Andhra Pradesh government to establish this advanced oceanography laboratory, spanning an area of 4,000 square metres. Located strategically in Visakhapatnam, the facility is poised to conduct comprehensive oceanographic research in the Bay of Bengal. Its primary objectives include identifying marine living and non-living resources while supporting the diverse needs of industries situated along the east coast.
Key Functions and National Contributions
The regional centre will play a crucial role in shaping national policy and decision-making processes related to coastal regulatory issues, disaster management, climate change adaptation, marine resource exploration, and environmental protection. It actively participates in major national oceanographic programmes, such as deep-sea exploration, monsoon research, and integrated coastal and marine area management.
According to officials, the centre's mandate involves systematic marine geological and geophysical surveys of the eastern continental margin of India. These surveys aim to map bathymetry, understand the tectonic framework, and identify areas with significant resource potential. The region holds immense promise for hydrocarbon resources and seabed minerals, largely due to the substantial sediment load carried by major rivers originating from the Himalayas.
Supporting Industries and Economic Development
The centre's work has already contributed significantly to India's energy security and economic development by reducing reliance on imports. It has provided vital support to key organisations such as ONGC, Reliance Industries, GAIL, and Oil India in establishing pipeline infrastructure and addressing numerous marine environment-related challenges along the east coast.
Furthermore, the centre has assisted various industries, including pharmaceuticals, steel, ports/harbours, and thermal power, in setting up operations along the coastal region. It is also tasked with demarcating coastal zone regulations to ensure sustainable development.
Scientific Advancements and Future Initiatives
Significant progress has been made in basic science, particularly in identifying potential fishing zones in the northern Indian Ocean to support the fishery sector. Officials highlighted that scientists are working on projecting tropical cyclone tracks to minimise loss of property and life. Additionally, the centre provides skill development programmes related to seaweed cultivation and predicts harmful algal blooms for the benefit of both fisheries and public health.
Inaugural Event Participants
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Home Minister V Anitha, Vizag MP M Sribharat, Bheemili MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao, CSIR Director-General Dr Kalaiselvi, NIO Scientist In-Charge Dr VVSS Sarma, and CSIR-NIO Director Prof Sunil Kumar Singh, among others. Their presence underscored the importance of this facility in advancing India's oceanographic research and coastal management efforts.
