Trieste: The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) of Chennai (Madras) has taken delivery of oceanographic vessel Sagar Nidhi ('Pearl of the Oceans') from the Muggiano yard in La Spezia of Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. NIOT director Dr. S. Kathiroli attended the handover ceremony.
The 5,000-ton ship, whose aft section was built at Riva Trigoso shipyard (Genoa), measures 104 metres long by 18 metres wide and is classed by Indian Register of Shipping and DNV . The vessel will be able to work in all regions, including tropical and polar environments, and will be able to carry out state-of-the-art oceanographic and hydrographic research including water, ice and core sampling of the sea bed. From on board it will also be possible to manage Remotely Operated Vehicles and Autonomous Underwater Vehicles at a distance.
Fincantieri has enjoyed close relations with India since signing a contract with Cochin shipyard in 2004 covering design of the engine of the new aircraft carrier for the Indian Navy and responsibility for its integration. In order to follow its activities and further strengthen its commercial relations, the Italian yard group has opened a permanent office in New Delhi. [14/12/07]
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