Hydrographic Surveys in Antarctica

Abstract

Hydrographic and physical oceanographic studies could enhance the national data bank. They could also greatly assist the various national agencies in correlating their work with the Antarctic waters' bathymetric and physical properties, leading to an improved understanding of the characteristics of the Antarctica waters. The bathymetric data gathered near the permanent station 'Maitri' could be utilised to exchange data with other nations like Russia and IHO. As per the charting scheme promulgated by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), INT Chart Nos. 9050 and 9051 are required to be co-produced by Russia and India. In the INT Chart 9050, vast blank areas exist due to the non-availability of bathymetric data. Thus, concerted efforts are required to fill in these gaps by undertaking systematic hydrographic surveys. These ocean areas are close to the permanent station in Antarctica. It is in the best interest of India to have a well surveyed navigational chart near the permanent station.