New Delhi
May 11, 2026
Hon'ble Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh formally launched the Autonomous Bathymetric Survey Vessel for Advanced Glacial Lake Profiling (ABSV-AGLP) during a function held on May 11th, National Technology Day 2026, at New Delhi.
Developed by C-DAC Thiruvananthapuram, with support from Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, the indigenous Autonomous Bathymetric Survey Vessel has been designed to address the growing threat of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) caused by rapid glacier retreat and climate change impacts in the Himalayan region.
The system enables advanced bathymetric profiling of glacial lakes, generating critical scientific data required for climate adaptation planning, early warning system development, and disaster preparedness initiatives. The data supports national agencies including the National Disaster Management Authority and State authorities in strengthening mitigation strategies against potential glacial lake disasters.
The ABSV was selected from nominations received from 14 Ministries, highlighting its national significance and technological innovation. Other distinguished dignitaries present at the event included Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Prof. Rajesh Sudhir Gokhale, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India & Shri Sudeep Shrivastava, Joint Secretary, MeitY, Government of India.
Demonstrating its operational capability, the ABSV has already been successfully deployed at the Baspa and Vasuki glacial lakes, in Himachal Pradesh, functioning effectively under extreme environmental conditions at altitudes reaching approximately 15,800 feet. The project also represents a significant contribution towards the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat by establishing an indigenous and scalable capability in autonomous hydrographic surveying, reinforcing India's long-term commitment to environmental sustainability, disaster resilience, and advanced technological self-reliance.
