Applications of marine geo-scientific techniques towards nearshore research and development

Objectives:

• To undertake systematic high resolution geological and geophysical exploration of near shore regions to study seabed and sub-seabed geological features.
• To provide geo-scientific consultancy / surveys (i) of near-shore region and (ii) on key coastal issues to industries.
• Creation of geo-scientific digital database.

General description: 

Geologic maps depicting bathymetry, surficial sediments, geomorphology, and shallow sub-bottom play an important role in understanding the ongoing geologic processes that shape the seabed in nearshore regions of India. Such maps are also instrumental in aiding sound economic development of natural resources and guidance to natural hazards that exist within the region. Therefore, the need to understand the geology of the seabed and sub-seabed in near-shore region has also grown.

This project mainly aims to provide quality Geoscience Services through internationally competitive technology to various coastal industries, and to maintain close linkages between research & development and its interface to industries.
Under this project, several requests have been received to undertake (i) systematic high resolution geological and geophysical exploration of the nearshore regions, (ii) exploration of placer minerals, and Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) to ensure the sustainable development of coastline. These projects generate ECF and large geoscientific data which are being preserved as a digital database.

Scientific components and achievements:

• Initiated high resolution geophysical survey along Goa coast.
• Number of surveys has been carried out to cater offshore industrial requirements. The institute has also been recognized by the Government of India as an authorized agency to carry out:
  1. Placer exploration for industries
  2. CRZ demarcation

Facilities available:

• Echosounder (single and duel beam)
• Side Scan Sonar System
• Sparker sub-bottom System
• Chirp sub-bottom profiler
• Navigation and positioning system (DGPS)
• Total Station with 3D scanner
• Lazer track
• Levels
• Placer analysis laboratory
• Geophysical computing Laboratory