Building Dakshin Gangotri at Antarctica: A Miracle
Abstract
The 3rd Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica led by Dr. Harsh Gupta established India’s first wintering station “Dakshin Gangotri’ in a record time, during the Antarctic summer of 1983/84. This record remains unbeaten to this day. This book recreates the atmosphere of excitement, challenge, and fierce determination to make the country proud, along with meticulous planning and execution, which enabled this ‘Miracle’ feat!
Tireless industry was the antidote to briefly dampened spirits after the near fatal MI-8 helicopter crash 3 days after arriving at Antarctica. Imagine digging 1.5 meter deep over an area of 620 square meters for placing the raft foundation and building a double storied structure complete with heating, laboratories, snow melting tank, commissioning of three generators, fuel dump, living quarters for 12 wintering team members, setting up of a medical room, communication room, gymnasium, recreation room etc. in 60 days. Several days were lost due to white-outs and blizzards.
The triumph of Dakshin Gangotri bears testimony to the commitment to scientific exploration, both outstanding team and those who extended unconditional support.
The well-illustrated book takes you through the magic journey of constructing and populating “Dakshin Gangotriâ€.
