DEMONSTRATION OF DRAGFLOW DREDGER FOR SILT TRAP & SHOAL DREDGING
Problem Addressed :
Dragflow dredger is a type of hydraulic dredger specifically designed and built to work in harsh (river mouth, estuary) conditions where normal conventional dredger cannot operate. The advanced design, which includes agitators, hydraulic cutters and pressure compensation equipment, allows for high-efficiency dredging. Further, the dragflow agitator and pump combination enables to rise and convey liquids and mixtures such as mud, slime, silt, sand and gravel; can handle mixtures with large size solids up to about 120mm. However, dragflow dredgers are of recent origin and so the technology is not prevalent. Besides, the cost is prohibitive compared to the conventional dredgers already in use, could be due to the import content.
Relevance under Sagarmala :
This will be under the heads of Connectivity Enhancement & Industrialization. This will also have impact in Community development.
Why now :
With the NW-1 becoming operational, the dredging issues and dredging costs will come into annual requirement shortly. Either conventional dredgers or small scale dredgers will not be suitable as the depth and cost aspects respectively will limit their use. Hence, this technology needs to be developed urgently.
Current Status in India :
No such work is being carried out elsewhere in India.
Global Status :
Dragflow dredgers are already being used in Europe in a customizable format and have been shown to be effective.
Timelines of completion :
Total project duration is 36 months, with the following milestones
- Year 1 : Development of pontoon based dredger with dragflow pumps.
- Year 2 : Demonstration in field at Haldia
- Year 3 : Demonstration at Dhaudia river mouth, South of Puri in Orissa
Key competencies and stakeholders involved :
IITM has been working in the design of floaters and dredging estimations. They have carried out several practical problems in the field to govt. and nongovernmental agencies. Here, they will partner with Ports and Inland waterway authorities to build and demonstrate this dredger.
Short Term Impact :
In the short term, the pilot study will ease pressure on critical inlets where navigation is an issue. Development of patents and commercial designs.
Medium Term impact :
Production and marketing of the Dragflow dredger as a product. Licensing to ports and waterways - delivery.
Long term impact :
Sustainable management of shallow dredging. Economical maintenance of waterways.
Physical location of the project :
NTCPWC, IITM Campus. The demonstrations will be carried out at various waterways.
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