India plans to establish a new Research Station in Antarctica, named Maitri-2, to replace the aging Maitri Station, with operations scheduled to commence by 2029, enhancing India’s research capabilities in the region. This move aims to significantly enhance India’s research capabilities on the frozen continent, allowing for advanced studies in fields like climate change, glaciology, and biodiversity.
The proposed project envisages adherence to environmental protocols for Antarctica and improving the quality of Indian scientific research in Antarctica
Maitri-2 is intended to replace the existing Maitri station, which was built in 1988 and is now considered old. The new Station will be located in East Antarctica, near the existing Maitri Station, and is expected to be operational by 2029.
Maitri-2 will be a state-of-the-art facility that adheres to environmental norms and will be able to accommodate approximately 90 scientists. The new station will allow for advanced studies in fields like climate change, glaciology, and biodiversity, enhancing India’s research capabilities on the frozen continent.
India has three permanent Research stations in Antarctica: Dakshin Gangotri (decommissioned) WAP IND-Ø1, Maitri WAP IND-Ø3, Bharati WAP IND-Ø4 and Indian Bay Camp WAP IND-Ø2 (used as a supply Base and transit Camp for the Indian Antarctic Program.
Maitri-2 will be a “New entry” on WAP WADA Directory when the base will be operational and “On the Air”.