Colombo, Sri Lanka, June 23 -- Ministry of Defence and Urban Development issued the following news release:
The 'World Hydrography Day 2026' commemorative ceremony, organized by the Sri Lanka Navy in collaboration with the Sri Lanka National Hydrographic Office, was held today (23 June) at the "Wave n' Lake" Navy Hall in Welisara, commemorating the global observance that highlights the vital role of hydrography in navigational safety, marine environmental protection, and the sustainable use of ocean resources.
The chief guest, Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), was warmly received by the Chairman of the National Hydrographic Council, Rear Admiral Sisira Jayakodi (Retd), together with the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda.
World Hydrography Day is celebrated annually on 21 June under the auspices of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). Held under the theme "Transforming How Ocean Data is Shared," this year's event underscores the growing importance of efficient, accessible, and innovative approaches to managing and disseminating hydrographic information in support of maritime activities worldwide.
Addressing the gathering, the Defence Secretary emphasized the strategic importance of hydrography in ensuring safe navigation, supporting maritime security, facilitating marine resource management, and protecting the marine environment. He also commended the dedicated efforts and professional contributions of the Sri Lanka Navy Hydrographic Unit and the Sri Lanka National Hydrographic Office in advancing the nation's hydrographic capabilities and strengthening Sri Lanka's standing within the international hydrographic community.
The keynote address was delivered by the Vice Chancellor of the Ocean University of Sri Lanka, Professor Nalin Rathnayake. The hydrographic survey map of the Jaffna lagoon was also presented to the Defence Secretary on the occasion.
The event brought together a distinguished gathering, including the National Hydrographer of Sri Lanka, the Chief Hydrographer of the Sri Lanka Navy, the SLGC Director General, members of the diplomatic corps, senior Navy officers, dignitaries, and professionals from government institutions, the private sector, academia, and other stakeholder organizations, as well as university students and naval personnel.
As part of the World Hydrography Day celebrations, a two-day field training programme for university students has also been organized. The programme provides participants with practical exposure to hydrographic surveying and related maritime activities while fostering greater awareness of the significance of hydrography in national development and maritime governance.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
