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World Hydrography Day is observed on the 21st of June every year to commemorate the establishment of the International Hydrographic Bureau by 19 member states in 1921. In 1970, it was renamed as the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) and presently has 80 Member States, covering the vast majority of Ocean States. The United Nations has  urged all states to work with IHO to promote safety of International Navigation, Maritime Development and Protection of vulnerable Marine Areas.

India is one of the member states of the International Hydrographic Organization.

The International Hydrographic Organization defines hydrography as “the branch of applied science which deals with the measurement and description of the physical features of the navigable portion of the earth’s surface [seas] and adjoining coastal areas, with special reference to their use for the purpose of navigation.”

The theme for this year’s World Hydrography Day is “Our seas and waterways-yet to be fully charted and explored.” It aims to raise awareness and attract support for improving the current absence of authoritative depth data for many parts of the seas and navigable waterways in the world. For example,there are higher resolution maps of the Moon and Mars than for many parts of our seas and coastal waters.

Hydrography is very vital for the maritime infrastructure and thereby the economy of India. This National responsibility is shouldered by the Indian navy and discharged by its hydrographic department.

Beach Survey by Trainees of the National Institute of Hydrography. Image source: http://www.nih.gov.in

Further reading:

India’s association with IHO and why is hydrography important for a maritime nation like India?