KHULNA, June 16: Science and Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam on Tuesday said the Small Research Vessel (SRV) would play an important role in exploring marine mineral resources, fisheries resources and advancing Bangladesh’s blue economy.
He said these while inaugurating the construction work of the country’s first internationally standard small marine research vessel keel-laying ceremony as the chief guest at the Khulna Shipyard Ltd (KSY).
Construction of the country’s first internationally standard small marine research vessel has begun at KSY to support oceanographic research, hydrographic surveys and blue economy initiatives.
He said scientific research conducted through the vessel would contribute to identifying and assessing the country’s marine resources, opening new horizons for innovation and development.
The vessel will be used for measuring sea depth, seabed mapping, scientific surveys, marine sample collection, hydrographic surveys, oil and gas exploration, fisheries research and environmental studies.
Under a direct procurement agreement signed between Khulna Shipyard Limited and Bangladesh Oceanographic Research Institute, one SRV for sample collection, one self-sustained pontoon, two high-speed cabin boats, and a 250-metre jetty with gangway will be constructed.
Senior officials from the Bangladesh Navy, Khulna Shipyard and the Bangladesh Oceanographic Research Institute were present at the ceremony.
