Maitri II: India's New Research Station in Antarctica
India is set to expand its presence in Antarctica with the new research station, Maitri II, approved by the Finance Ministry. Scheduled for completion by January 2029, Maitri II will be India's fourth research base on the continent, overseen by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
Background
- Existing Bases: India currently operates Maitri (since 1989) and Bharati (since 2012) after the initial base, Dakshin Gangotri, was operational for a few years.
- Approval: Maitri II received in-principle approval in October 2023, with a financial outlay of approximately ₹2,000 crore.
- Location: It will be situated in eastern Antarctica.
Maitri II Features and Objectives
- Green Research Base: Plans include utilizing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.
- Automated Instruments: Designed for unmanned operations, with data relayed to India.
- Improved Living Conditions: Enhanced infrastructure and facilities, including upgraded toilets, are planned.
Construction Challenges
- Extreme Weather: The construction must contend with harsh conditions and fragile ecosystems.
- Material Transport: All materials need to be shipped from the mainland, utilizing prefabricated components.
- Construction Timeline: Groundwork could start between October and March, with construction likely in the summer months.
Planning and Execution
- Phase 1: Award contracts, conduct site surveys, and prepare roads (18 months).
- Phase 2: Transport prefabricated materials to Cape Town, then to the Indian Barrier, and finally to the site (another 18 months).
- Phase 3: Final transport and assembly at the Maitri II site.