Navy celebrates World Hydrography Day

In celebration of World Hydrography Day (21^st June), the Sri Lanka Navy Hydrographic Service marked the occasion at Wave n' Lake Navy Hall in Welisara today (28^th June 2024). At the invitation of the Chief Hydrographer of the Sri Lanka Navy, Rear Admiral Kosala Warnakulasooriya and Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, the event was graced by Hon. Premitha Bandara Tennakoon, the State Minister of Defence, as the Chief Guest.

On 21^st June every year, the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) celebrates the World Hydrography Day to raise awareness about hydrography and how it plays a vital role in improved knowledge of the seas and oceans. Since its celebration for the first time in 2006, World Hydrography Day has been celebrated annually, each year highlighting different themes. Accordingly, the theme for World Hydrography Day 2024 is "Hydrographic Information - Enhancing Safety, Efficiency and Sustainability in Marine Activities".

The welcome remarks of today's event was made by the Chief Hydrographer of the Sri Lanka Navy, Rear Admiral Kosala Warnakulasooriya. Addressing the distinguished audience next, Hon. Premitha Bandara Tennakoon underscored the crucial role of hydrography in bolstering our economy and national security. He emphasized that precise and thorough hydrographic data is essential for the growth of maritime trade and serves as the foundation for planning and executing naval operations. He also highlighted significant achievements, including the enactment of the National Hydrographic Act, the establishment of the National Hydrographic Office, and the formation of the Hydrographic Council. Reflecting on these recent milestones, he acknowledged the formidable challenges faced and overcome in streamlining these initiatives. The State Minister of Defence affirmed the Navy's vital role in the hydrography sector moving forward and pledged the government's continued support. He concluded by expressing his heartfelt gratitude to all dedicated professionals in the field for their unwavering commitment and contribution to achieving national goals.

Addressing the gathering, the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera expressed his profound gratitude for the gracious presence of the Hon. State Minister of Defence who attended this event as the Chief Guest. Vice Admiral Perera also highlighted the significance of the Navy's Hydrographic Service to provide quality hydrographic data in support of decision-making towards sustainable development, protection and safe use of Sri Lanka's maritime domain.

In addition, Chairman of National Hydrographic Council, Rear Admiral Sisira Jayakody (Retd), Prof. Manisha Pasqual from Faculty of Art University of Colombo, and former the Chief Hydrographer of the Sri Lanka Navy and Chief of Staff, Rear Admiral YN Jayarathne (Retd) also delivered lectures.

Defence Attachés / Advisers of Embassies and High Commissions in Sri Lanka, officials from National Hydrographic Council, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) and Ports Authority, lecturers and undergraduates from the University of Colombo, Ocean University and General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, trainees from CINEC Campus as well as officers from the Navy and Coast Guard were also present at the event.