Two Coastal Research Vessels(CRVs) namely Sagar Purvi and Sagar Paschimi acquired by DOD during 1996-97 for continuous collection of samples from the coastal areas for monitoring the pollution levels in different points, are being managed by a Vessel Management Cell set up in the National Institute of Ocean Technology, Chennai.

During 1998-99, both these vessels being used by twelve major National Laboratories for their work have successfully completed 28 cruises covering about 160 sampling stations, as detailed in Table No-1 & 2. Another 10 cruises are likely to be carried out by these vessels in March 1999. The critical marine habitat and delicate environment of coral reefs at Lakshadweep were monitored with the help of Sagar Paschimi. Sagar Paschimi was also chartered for 11 days by IPSEM, ONGC for oilrig monitoring work. CRVs were also used to collect data on coastal currents, sea bottom and wave parameters for the Pennar Refinery Project. The multibeam swath bathymetric survey and 3-D mapping of Chennai harbour channel undertaken with these vessels. Construction of a multipurpose building for storage, etc., at the land allotted by Chennai Port Trust is underway.