In a step toward marine conservation and ecological innovation, Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, officially launched the 3D Printed Concrete Artificial Reef Project—a pioneering initiative jointly led by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) and the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IIT Guwahati). The event took place at Sri Vijaya Puram, Port Blair.
The 3D Printed Concrete Artificial Reef Project represents a significant effort to enhance marine biodiversity and support sustainable ocean practices.
The launch ceremony was graced by distinguished dignitaries including Prof. Balaji Ramakrishnan from NIOT, Smt. Smitha R, Chief Secretary (i/c) of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood from the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.
Through the implementation of the 3D Printed Concrete Artificial Reef Project, scientists aim to develop innovative solutions that can be replicated globally. The funding for the 3D Printed Concrete Artificial Reef Project underscores the commitment to advancing research in marine conservation. The 3D Printed Concrete Artificial Reef Project sets a new standard in the interaction of technology and marine ecology.
This cutting-edge project aims to restore marine habitats and foster biodiversity using sustainable engineering practices and digital technologies. By utilizing advanced 3D printing techniques, the initiative creates artificial reef structures that closely resemble natural coral formations, offering a promising solution for ecological regeneration in India’s coastal waters.
Funded by the Technology Innovation Hub – IITG TIDF at IIT Guwahati under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), and supported by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, the project represents a strategic fusion of marine science, technology, and environmental stewardship.
The successful launch is the result of dedicated efforts from a team of PhD scholars, researchers, and scientists from both NIOT and IIT Guwahati. Special recognition was extended to Dodda Srinivas, Akshay Sahu, Gugulothu Sharath Naik, Dr. Dilip Kumar Jha, Dr. G. Dharani, and Dr. N.V. Vinithkumar for their pivotal contributions to the project.
This initiative not only marks a technological milestone but also sets a benchmark for future interdisciplinary projects aimed at protecting and rejuvenating India’s rich marine ecosystems.
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