WGS84 Datum Shift May Expand India’s Maritime Boundaries
Why in the news
India is considering moving to the World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS84) datum to mark its coastline. The older Everest Ellipsoid system would be dropped, which may enlarge maritime zones marginally.
Key facts
- New datum: WGS84; old one: Everest Ellipsoid.
- Maritime limits may grow by a few metres up to several hundred metres.
- 133 coordinates will be revised and published in a fresh gazette notification.
- The Ministry of External Affairs is working to match global standards.
- In 2014, the Permanent Court of Arbitration used WGS84 in the India-Bangladesh maritime dispute.
Impact on boundaries
| Zone or area | Detail |
|---|---|
| Territorial waters | 12 nautical miles, to be redefined |
| Exclusive Economic Zone | 200 nautical miles, to be redefined |
| Sir Mouth (Sir Creek) | Baseline may shift about 57 m northwest |
| Bangladesh side | Changes may be larger |
| Pakistan side | Slight effect |
Exam angle
- Datum proposed: World Geodetic System 1984.
- Limits affected: territorial sea (12 nm) and EEZ (200 nm).
- Related terms: Sir Creek, Permanent Court of Arbitration.