MP Sribharat advocates satellite-based maritime surveillance for coastal cities
Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat has stressed the need for adopting satellite-based maritime surveillance systems for strategic coastal cities such as Visakhapatnam during a visit to Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT) in Tromsø, Norway.
The visit was part of the India-Norway Knowledge Exchange Tour. Nandyal MP Byreddy Shabari accompanied him.
KSAT, a global provider of satellite-based maritime monitoring, environmental observation and security services, operates an extensive network of satellite ground stations and advanced monitoring systems. During the visit, KSAT officials briefed the MPs on a range of satellite applications, including maritime traffic monitoring, detection of illegal fishing activities, oil-spill surveillance, environmental monitoring and climate data collection.
Mr. Sribharat said India, with its vast coastline and growing maritime interests, could derive substantial benefits from advanced satellite-enabled surveillance technologies. Such systems could help strengthen coastal and maritime security, protect marine resources, enhance disaster management capabilities and support environmental conservation efforts, he said.
The discussions also explored opportunities for cooperation between India and Norway in sustainable development, green technologies, the blue economy and the use of space technology for public welfare.
Mr. Sribharat said knowledge-sharing initiatives and technology partnerships between the two countries could foster innovation-led growth and help address challenges related to climate change, environmental protection and maritime governance.
He observed that exposure to international best practices would create opportunities for future collaboration in research, technology development and capacity building, while strengthening bilateral cooperation in emerging sectors.