Tuesday, January 11 2005 17:56 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: A clear picture on the changes in the physical, chemical and biological constitution of the tsunami-affected areas is likely to emerge by this month-end or early February after conclusion of a scientific study.

"Two research vessels - Sagar Kanya and Sagar Sampada are currently circumnavigating the tsunami-affected coastline," Department of Ocean Development Secretary Dr Harsh Gupta told sources in New Delhi.

"The report on the studies being carried out by the scientists on the two ships would be ready by the end of this month or early next month, he said.

While Sagar Kanya is taking "site sonar images" using an instrument called Site Sonar, Sagar Sampada is equipped with all the systems to study biological material, Gupta said.

The sonar images would help find out the topographical changes, including subsidence and elevation, Gupta said adding Sagar Kanya was also collecting samples to understand changes in the "chemical oceanography".

Sagar Kanya had left Goa on January 3 and has already circumnavigated all of Sri Lanka, the coast of Kerala and is currently at the lowermost portion of the south of Chennai.

The ship is likely to reach Chennai today (Jan 11, 2005) or tomorrow (Jan 12, 2005) and would stay there for a couple of days.