Indian naval ship concludes hydrographic survey |26 February 2008

The survey, which started on February 3 and ended on February 22, was carried out in close cooperation with the Seychelles Coast Guard (SCG) and the Seychelles People’s Defence Forces (SPDF).

During the survey, a total of 2500 nautical miles of sounding was undertaken by the ship and her survey motor boats.

According to a communiqué from the SPDF, the entire coastline from North Point to Petite Anse, covering a distance of 32 nautical miles, has been delineated by teams positioned ashore and in helicopter.

“A detailed study of the topography, seabed texture, tides and currents have also been undertaken by state of the art hydrographic equipment,” says the communiqué. 

A new navigational chart resulting from the survey was formally presented during a reception onboard the INS Investigator on Saturday.

According to the communiqué, the data on the existing navigational chart dates back to as far as the year 1890 and “with production of the latest and updated navigational chart, mariners can safely and confidently navigate their vessels and crafts in the area”.

“The results of the detailed survey would also immensely assist the planners in the Seychelles government to develop the coastal and offshore areas to their full potential,” adds the communiqué.

Also during the ship’s visit here, its Commanding Officer, Commander Peush Pawsey, paid a courtesy call on President James Michel and apprised him of the excellent progress of the hydrographic task and the fine cooperation received from all concerned authorities in Seychelles.

The Chief of Staff of the SPDF, Colonel Clifford Roseline, and the Commanding Officer of the SCG, Colonel Donald Gertrude, also visited the ship at sea on February 20 to review the task being undertaken.